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Iran's military has formally announced a financial bounty equivalent to $30,000 for the capture or death of American soldiers. The official release highlighted a unique condition: the reward will be completely doubled if the act is successfully executed by a woman. According to reports from the IRNA state news agency, Iranian Army chief Amir Hatami explained that this aggressive initiative was officially established following "the large number of requests" from individuals seeking to actively participate in financial support efforts for the military cause.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-3-pilots-captured-by-qatari-forces-after-their-su-24-jets-crashed-1786849233939/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-3-pilots-captured-by-qatari-forces-after-their-su-24-jets-crashed-1786849233939/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite the high-profile announcement, Hatami did not outline specific operational details or target regions regarding where or when these actions against US personnel were expected to take place. While fighting has taken place during the West Asia war, there is no known deployment of US ground forces inside Iran, aside from an April rescue mission conducted for a downed American pilot. Hatami omitted specific details regarding where or when the targeted capture or killing of American forces should occur. "Anyone who kills or captures and hands over an invading American military personnel will receive a reward equivalent to $30,000 or 5 billion tomans from the Islamic Republic of Iran's Army," Hatami declared. The sum references an informal currency unit equal to 10,000 Iranian rials.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worry-about-his-own-security-iran-official-s-warning-to-trump-amid-claims-on-hormuz-1786861766545">'Worry about his own security': Iran official's warning to Trump amid claims on Hormuz</a>&nbsp;"Courageous Iranian women who carry out such an action will receive double the reward," he added. The conflict involving Washington and Tehran initiated on February 28 following an attack on Iran launched by the United States and Israel. A ceasefire was subsequently established in April after nearly 40 days of active combat, followed by a June framework intended for peace negotiations that eventually collapsed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-urges-qatar-to-release-pilots-shot-down-in-middle-east-war-doha-denies-detention-1786822756273">Iran urges Qatar to release pilots shot down in Middle East war; Doha denies detention</a>&nbsp;Since the breakdown of those talks, Iran and the United States have engaged in sporadic exchanges of fire. This ongoing military friction remains primarily concentrated in southern Iran as well as the surrounding area of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's military has announced a $30,000 bounty for anyone who kills or captures US soldiers, offering to double the reward if executed by women. Read the full details on the army chief's statement. 

Iran's military has formally announced a financial bounty equivalent to $30,000 for the capture or death of American soldiers. The official release highlighted a unique condition: the reward will be completely doubled if the act is successfully executed by a woman. According to reports from the IRNA state news agency, Iranian Army chief Amir Hatami explained that this aggressive initiative was officially established following "the large number of requests" from individuals seeking to actively participate in financial support efforts for the military cause. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-3-pilots-captured-by-qatari-forces-after-their-su-24-jets-crashed-1786849233939/embed Despite the high-profile announcement, Hatami did not outline specific operational details or target regions regarding where or when these actions against US personnel were expected to take place. While fighting has taken place during the West Asia war, there is no known deployment of US ground forces inside Iran, aside from an April rescue mission conducted for a downed American pilot. Hatami omitted specific details regarding where or when the targeted capture or killing of American forces should occur. "Anyone who kills or captures and hands over an invading American military personnel will receive a reward equivalent to $30,000 or 5 billion tomans from the Islamic Republic of Iran's Army," Hatami declared. The sum references an informal currency unit equal to 10,000 Iranian rials. Also read: 'Worry about his own security': Iran official's warning to Trump amid claims on Hormuz "Courageous Iranian women who carry out such an action will receive double the reward," he added. The conflict involving Washington and Tehran initiated on February 28 following an attack on Iran launched by the United States and Israel. A ceasefire was subsequently established in April after nearly 40 days of active combat, followed by a June framework intended for peace negotiations that eventually collapsed. Also read: Iran urges Qatar to release pilots shot down in Middle East war; Doha denies detention Since the breakdown of those talks, Iran and the United States have engaged in sporadic exchanges of fire. This ongoing military friction remains primarily concentrated in southern Iran as well as the surrounding area of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's military has announced a $30,000 bounty for anyone who kills or captures US soldiers, offering to double the reward if executed by women. Read the full details on the army chief's statement.

Iran offers $30,000 bounty for killing US soldiers and doubles it for female fighters

A Hamas delegation held talks with the Egyptian Intelligence Chief in Cairo on Sunday, in an attempt to address Israeli violations and ensure implementation of an agreed roadmap in Gaza. The delegation is being led by Hamas chief Khalil al-Hayya, and the meeting was held in the Egyptian city of El-Alamein. This comes just ahead of US President Donald Trump’s envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner talking with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi about the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire.The Hamas official says talks will cover “the latest developments in the negotiations and the efforts being made to compel Israel to abide by the agreement, which includes the 15-point roadmap, and to begin its implementation.”“The delegation will brief Egyptian officials on Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement, and Hayya will emphasise the movement’s commitment and readiness to implement the agreement as soon as Israel announces its commitment to it.”The meeting between the US President's envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner in the Mediterranean city of El-Alamein “emphasised the need for all parties to fulfil their obligations under the Gaza Strip ceasefire agreement” reached in October 2025, says spokesperson Mohamed El-Shennawy in a statement.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kfc-mangaluru-raid-spoiled-chicken-expired-oil-1786879521760">KFC Mangaluru outlet sealed after complaint of spoiled and foul-smelling chicken</a>According to AFP, a meeting is also being arranged between the Hamas negotiating delegation, the Board of Peace’s high representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, and US officials. This is likely to be held later in the week to discuss hurdles related to the agreement.&nbsp;"Mediators informed Hamas that US envoy Jared Kushner will hold a meeting with the Hamas leadership, in the presence of Egyptian and Qatari officials, before Kushner travels to Israel to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu," said one of the Hamas sources, requesting anonymity to discuss the sensitive diplomacy.Under the proposed US President Donald Trump's 15-point peace roadmap, Hamas previously indicated a readiness to hand over its weapons to a nascent technical committee tasked with governing Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the framework, insisting that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed. Conversely, Hamas negotiators have also stated they will not take steps toward disarmament before a complete Israeli military withdrawal.

Hamas chief Khalil al-Hayya is meeting Egyptian intelligence officials as US envoy Jared Kushner holds talks with President el-Sissi on the Gaza ceasefire.

A Hamas delegation held talks with the Egyptian Intelligence Chief in Cairo on Sunday, in an attempt to address Israeli violations and ensure implementation of an agreed roadmap in Gaza. The delegation is being led by Hamas chief Khalil al-Hayya, and the meeting was held in the Egyptian city of El-Alamein. This comes just ahead of US President Donald Trump’s envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner talking with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi about the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire. The Hamas official says talks will cover “the latest developments in the negotiations and the efforts being made to compel Israel to abide by the agreement, which includes the 15-point roadmap, and to begin its implementation.” “The delegation will brief Egyptian officials on Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement, and Hayya will emphasise the movement’s commitment and readiness to implement the agreement as soon as Israel announces its commitment to it.” The meeting between the US President's envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner in the Mediterranean city of El-Alamein “emphasised the need for all parties to fulfil their obligations under the Gaza Strip ceasefire agreement” reached in October 2025, says spokesperson Mohamed El-Shennawy in a statement. Also Read: KFC Mangaluru outlet sealed after complaint of spoiled and foul-smelling chicken According to AFP, a meeting is also being arranged between the Hamas negotiating delegation, the Board of Peace’s high representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, and US officials. This is likely to be held later in the week to discuss hurdles related to the agreement. "Mediators informed Hamas that US envoy Jared Kushner will hold a meeting with the Hamas leadership, in the presence of Egyptian and Qatari officials, before Kushner travels to Israel to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu," said one of the Hamas sources, requesting anonymity to discuss the sensitive diplomacy. Under the proposed US President Donald Trump's 15-point peace roadmap, Hamas previously indicated a readiness to hand over its weapons to a nascent technical committee tasked with governing Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the framework, insisting that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed. Conversely, Hamas negotiators have also stated they will not take steps toward disarmament before a complete Israeli military withdrawal.

Hamas chief Khalil al-Hayya is meeting Egyptian intelligence officials as US envoy Jared Kushner holds talks with President el-Sissi on the Gaza ceasefire.

Hamas delegation meets Egyptian spy chief as US envoy Jared Kushner holds Gaza ceasefire talks

At least 93 patients have tested positive for cholera at a single hospital in Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, as an outbreak that began last week continues to spread across the region. More than 180 people in Yangon have been hospitalised with diarrhea, a common symptom of cholera, according to Dr. Nanda Win, head of the Yangon Region Public Health and Medical Services Department. He said Friday that one 92-year-old man had died.&nbsp;The outbreak is placing additional pressure on Myanmar’s already weakened health care system, which has deteriorated under junta rule as military spending has taken priority over health services. Dr. Nanda Win said cases were mainly concentrated in downtown Yangon, particularly in Chinatown. Contaminated water and takeaway street food were identified as possible sources of the outbreak. Authorities are continuing to trace where patients live and whether they have traveled to determine the extent of the spread.&nbsp;Officials are preparing medical supplies at 83 other hospitals across the Yangon region while also working to ensure the safety of the city’s water supply. Cholera outbreaks are not uncommon in Myanmar, but health experts say they are relatively rare in Yangon. They have linked the latest outbreak to deteriorating sanitation conditions. Dr. Tin Tun, a doctor and former district chairman in Yangon, said food outlets had not been adequately inspected, water supplies for cleaning were insufficient and drainage systems were no longer being properly maintained.&nbsp;Although Yangon General Hospital was equipped to treat cholera patients, he warned that other health facilities may not have the same capacity. “If it spreads to other towns and villages where health care services are weak, I am worried that the death rate could be higher,” Dr. Tin Tun said. Reports of cholera cases have also emerged outside the Yangon region. “We have also seen cases among people returning from Yangon,” said Aung Myo, an ambulance worker in Kyaikkhami, Mon State.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-middle-east-commander-visits-uss-lincoln-amid-iran-war-gaza-and-lebanon-tensions-1786882278296">US top commander visits USS Lincoln amid Iran war, Gaza and Lebanon tensions</a>&nbsp;He said a 34-year-old man and a 59-year-old woman tested positive after returning from Yangon. Some of their fellow travelers and family members have subsequently been quarantined. For 15-year-old Yangon resident Sithu Phyo, symptoms began roughly two hours after he ate fermented fish salad with his family last week. By the following day, he was experiencing severe leg cramps and was too weak to walk. “My face had become very thin, my eyes and cheeks were sunken, and I was shaking,” he said.&nbsp;His family took him to a hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with cholera and treated him with intravenous fluids.Myanmar has struggled with infectious diseases for years, while its health care system has been severely affected by the country’s ongoing civil war. UNICEF has said Myanmar has one of the world’s largest populations of children who have never received a vaccine.&nbsp;Much of the progress made in disease prevention during civilian rule was reversed after the military seized power in 2021. Poverty and conflict continue to create conditions that can contribute to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera.The latest outbreak also comes as Myanmar experiences some of its heaviest monsoon rains in years, according to local media reports.&nbsp;Severe flooding can contaminate water supplies and increase the risk of cholera outbreaks. The World Health Organization has also warned that climate change is worsening the conditions that can contribute to such outbreaks.Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium that causes the disease. It can lead to severe diarrhea and vomiting and, in serious cases, dehydration, kidney failure and death.&nbsp;The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that as many as four million people contract cholera worldwide each year, with up to 143,000 deaths. Since the outbreak began last week, Yangon officials have stepped up efforts to disinfect the city’s water supply by injecting chlorine into pipelines, according to the city’s sanitation department. Health officials are also quarantining people who have been in close contact with individuals who tested positive for cholera. If the response proceeds as planned, Dr. Nanda Win said authorities expect the number of cases to fall sharply within a week. “If all goes to plan, “we expect the number of cases to drop significantly within a week,” Dr. Nanda Win said.

Myanmar’s cholera outbreak is spreading across Yangon, with 93 confirmed cases, over 180 hospitalizations and growing concerns over water and sanitation

At least 93 patients have tested positive for cholera at a single hospital in Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, as an outbreak that began last week continues to spread across the region. More than 180 people in Yangon have been hospitalised with diarrhea, a common symptom of cholera, according to Dr. Nanda Win, head of the Yangon Region Public Health and Medical Services Department. He said Friday that one 92-year-old man had died. The outbreak is placing additional pressure on Myanmar’s already weakened health care system, which has deteriorated under junta rule as military spending has taken priority over health services. Dr. Nanda Win said cases were mainly concentrated in downtown Yangon, particularly in Chinatown. Contaminated water and takeaway street food were identified as possible sources of the outbreak. Authorities are continuing to trace where patients live and whether they have traveled to determine the extent of the spread. Officials are preparing medical supplies at 83 other hospitals across the Yangon region while also working to ensure the safety of the city’s water supply. Cholera outbreaks are not uncommon in Myanmar, but health experts say they are relatively rare in Yangon. They have linked the latest outbreak to deteriorating sanitation conditions. Dr. Tin Tun, a doctor and former district chairman in Yangon, said food outlets had not been adequately inspected, water supplies for cleaning were insufficient and drainage systems were no longer being properly maintained. Although Yangon General Hospital was equipped to treat cholera patients, he warned that other health facilities may not have the same capacity. “If it spreads to other towns and villages where health care services are weak, I am worried that the death rate could be higher,” Dr. Tin Tun said. Reports of cholera cases have also emerged outside the Yangon region. “We have also seen cases among people returning from Yangon,” said Aung Myo, an ambulance worker in Kyaikkhami, Mon State. Also Read: US top commander visits USS Lincoln amid Iran war, Gaza and Lebanon tensions He said a 34-year-old man and a 59-year-old woman tested positive after returning from Yangon. Some of their fellow travelers and family members have subsequently been quarantined. For 15-year-old Yangon resident Sithu Phyo, symptoms began roughly two hours after he ate fermented fish salad with his family last week. By the following day, he was experiencing severe leg cramps and was too weak to walk. “My face had become very thin, my eyes and cheeks were sunken, and I was shaking,” he said. His family took him to a hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with cholera and treated him with intravenous fluids. Myanmar has struggled with infectious diseases for years, while its health care system has been severely affected by the country’s ongoing civil war. UNICEF has said Myanmar has one of the world’s largest populations of children who have never received a vaccine. Much of the progress made in disease prevention during civilian rule was reversed after the military seized power in 2021. Poverty and conflict continue to create conditions that can contribute to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera. The latest outbreak also comes as Myanmar experiences some of its heaviest monsoon rains in years, according to local media reports. Severe flooding can contaminate water supplies and increase the risk of cholera outbreaks. The World Health Organization has also warned that climate change is worsening the conditions that can contribute to such outbreaks. Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium that causes the disease. It can lead to severe diarrhea and vomiting and, in serious cases, dehydration, kidney failure and death. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that as many as four million people contract cholera worldwide each year, with up to 143,000 deaths. Since the outbreak began last week, Yangon officials have stepped up efforts to disinfect the city’s water supply by injecting chlorine into pipelines, according to the city’s sanitation department. Health officials are also quarantining people who have been in close contact with individuals who tested positive for cholera. If the response proceeds as planned, Dr. Nanda Win said authorities expect the number of cases to fall sharply within a week. “If all goes to plan, “we expect the number of cases to drop significantly within a week,” Dr. Nanda Win said.

Cholera spreads across Yangon, Myanmar, with 93 confirmed cases at one hospital, over 180 hospitalised and one death amid sanitation concerns

Cholera outbreak spreads across Yangon as more than 180 people hospitalised

Thousands of displaced residents on Flores Island, Indonesia, desperately awaited relief on Sunday (Aug 16) following a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck early Saturday (Aug 15). The initial tremor occurred off the island's northern coast at a shallow depth, triggering nearly 1,000 aftershocks. The disaster left 53 people dead, 135 injured, and no missing persons reported. Thousands fled to elevated grounds or temporary outdoor shelters, fearing further collapses and initial tsunami threats, though tsunami warnings were later lifted despite observed waves up to 1.6 meters.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-earthquake-7-7-magnitude-quake-kills-38-tsunami-warning-issued-buildings-collapse-1786798840315/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-earthquake-7-7-magnitude-quake-kills-38-tsunami-warning-issued-buildings-collapse-1786798840315/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Critical infrastructure was severely impacted, leaving several areas without power or telecommunication services, while at least one key emergency access road was blocked. Officials reported widespread structural destruction: 914 homes were severely damaged, hundreds suffered lighter damage, and scores of public facilities including 93 educational sites, 36 health facilities, and 38 government offices were affected. Due to structural risks, local authorities warned residents against returning to compromised buildings.&nbsp;Survivors, such as residents in Nangahale and Kisol villages, reported taking shelter on hilltops and open outdoor areas. They voiced urgent demands for basic necessities, including staple foods, drinking water, medicines, diapers, blankets, mats, camp beds, emergency tents, and power generators. At Kisol, the quake destroyed several residences and part of a local church. In Ruteng, heavy machinery cleared street debris while a damaged hospital evacuated patients into outdoor tents; medical staff even performed a successful emergency C-section in a usable storage room.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-earthquake-7-7-magnitude-quake-triggers-tsunami-warning-flores-residents-told-to-flee-1786754379285">Indonesia earthquake: 7.7 magnitude quake triggers tsunami warning, Flores residents told to flee</a>&nbsp;Disaster response operations were mobilised to address the crisis. BNPB national disaster agency head Suharyanto confirmed the deployment of five helicopters, multiple airplanes, a naval vessel, and search and rescue ships. The government dispatched 275 tonnes of aid comprising 50,000 packages. Additionally, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies prepared aid operations, and European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen offered assistance via Copernicus Earth observation satellites.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/6-9-magnitude-earthquake-jolts-indonesia-second-in-a-day-usgs-1786793102756">Indonesia hit by second earthquake of 6.9 magnitude as death toll reaches 38; rescue teams search Flores debris</a>&nbsp;Indonesia sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a region prone to frequent seismic activity. Flores previously suffered a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake and tsunami in 1992 that killed around 2,500 people. Indonesia also experienced a 9.1-magnitude quake in 2004 off Sumatra, which generated a regional tsunami that killed 220,000 people, including approximately 170,000 in Indonesia alone.

Thousands of survivors are waiting for emergency aid on Indonesia’s Flores Island after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake killed over 50 people and damaged hundreds of homes.

Thousands of displaced residents on Flores Island, Indonesia, desperately awaited relief on Sunday (Aug 16) following a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck early Saturday (Aug 15). The initial tremor occurred off the island's northern coast at a shallow depth, triggering nearly 1,000 aftershocks. The disaster left 53 people dead, 135 injured, and no missing persons reported. Thousands fled to elevated grounds or temporary outdoor shelters, fearing further collapses and initial tsunami threats, though tsunami warnings were later lifted despite observed waves up to 1.6 meters. https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-earthquake-7-7-magnitude-quake-kills-38-tsunami-warning-issued-buildings-collapse-1786798840315/embed Critical infrastructure was severely impacted, leaving several areas without power or telecommunication services, while at least one key emergency access road was blocked. Officials reported widespread structural destruction: 914 homes were severely damaged, hundreds suffered lighter damage, and scores of public facilities including 93 educational sites, 36 health facilities, and 38 government offices were affected. Due to structural risks, local authorities warned residents against returning to compromised buildings. Survivors, such as residents in Nangahale and Kisol villages, reported taking shelter on hilltops and open outdoor areas. They voiced urgent demands for basic necessities, including staple foods, drinking water, medicines, diapers, blankets, mats, camp beds, emergency tents, and power generators. At Kisol, the quake destroyed several residences and part of a local church. In Ruteng, heavy machinery cleared street debris while a damaged hospital evacuated patients into outdoor tents; medical staff even performed a successful emergency C-section in a usable storage room. Also read: Indonesia earthquake: 7.7 magnitude quake triggers tsunami warning, Flores residents told to flee Disaster response operations were mobilised to address the crisis. BNPB national disaster agency head Suharyanto confirmed the deployment of five helicopters, multiple airplanes, a naval vessel, and search and rescue ships. The government dispatched 275 tonnes of aid comprising 50,000 packages. Additionally, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies prepared aid operations, and European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen offered assistance via Copernicus Earth observation satellites. Also read: Indonesia hit by second earthquake of 6.9 magnitude as death toll reaches 38; rescue teams search Flores debris Indonesia sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a region prone to frequent seismic activity. Flores previously suffered a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake and tsunami in 1992 that killed around 2,500 people. Indonesia also experienced a 9.1-magnitude quake in 2004 off Sumatra, which generated a regional tsunami that killed 220,000 people, including approximately 170,000 in Indonesia alone.

Thousands of survivors are waiting for emergency aid on Indonesia’s Flores Island after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake killed over 50 people and damaged hundreds of homes.

Thousands await aid in Indonesia as 7.7-magnitude earthquake kills 53 on Flores Island

US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper visited the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea during a 10-day tour of the Middle East that concluded on Saturday, as the US military's war with Iran and wider regional tensions continued to dominate developments. Cooper's visit came amid reports of mental health concerns and supply problems aboard the aircraft carrier. The Lincoln arrived in the Middle East in January and has been supporting the US military campaign against Iran, including operations linked to the blockade of Iranian ports.&nbsp;The carrier has spent more than 240 consecutive days at sea, setting a record. Its extended deployment has renewed concerns about the impact of prolonged operations on both the ship and its more than 5,000 sailors and Marines. In a statement issued on Saturday, Cooper described the deployment as historic, saying, “History will record this deployment as one of the most operationally intense and consequential of the modern era.”&nbsp;According to Central Command, Cooper also visited Bahrain, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where he met civilian and military leaders. The US Navy's blockade followed Iran's declaration of control over the Strait of Hormuz after the war started on February 28 with US and Israeli strikes. Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of the world's traded oil and natural gas passed through the strategic waterway at the entrance to the Persian Gulf.Diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran have stalled. Iran is separately holding discussions with Oman over how the Strait of Hormuz should be managed, despite the waterway having traditionally been regarded as an international passage.<h2>'Hezbollah commanders killed in Lebanon strikes': Israel&nbsp;</h2>Meanwhile, Israel said its military strikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday targeted two Hezbollah commanders. Lebanese authorities and the country's state news agency reported that at least 11 people were killed in two separate attacks. The strikes were described as the deadliest since a truce between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, took effect in June.&nbsp;Israel's military said early Sunday that a later strike killed Abu Hassan Alaa, whom it described as a senior Hezbollah commander. Israel said he had participated in attacks against Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon and had led militants involved in attacks targeting Israeli soldiers and civilians over several years. Earlier, the Israeli military said a strike in Ansar killed Ali Samir Al-Haj Hassan, whom it also identified as a Hezbollah commander. The military said his family was present but was not targeted.&nbsp;The developments come after Israel and Lebanon announced a framework agreement in late June outlining a potential Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon in return for Hezbollah's disarmament. The proposed framework also envisages steps toward an eventual peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon, which remain technically at war nearly eight decades after Israel's establishment. Hezbollah has rejected direct negotiations and was not a party to the US-mediated agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wildfires-rage-across-greece-and-croatia-as-tourists-flee-firefighters-battle-flames-and-smoke-1786877594864">Wildfires rage across Greece and Croatia as tourists flee; firefighters battle flames and smoke</a><h2>Hamas delegation arrives in Cairo for Gaza ceasefire talks</h2>A Hamas delegation led by group leader Khalil al-Hayya arrived in Cairo on Sunday for talks related to a Gaza ceasefire, Hamas said. Egyptian state-run media reported that al-Hayya met Major General Hassan Rashad, head of Egypt's intelligence service. Al-Qahera News television said al-Hayya reaffirmed Hamas' commitment to implementing US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan 'to end the suffering of the residents of the Gaza Strip and to begin the reconstruction process'.&nbsp;The discussions came as mediators worked to advance a roadmap involving the disarmament of Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups in Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the transfer of administrative authority to Palestinian technocrats. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected Trump's latest proposal to revive the stalled ceasefire process. Netanyahu has said Israel will not withdraw from the roughly 60 per cent of Gaza it currently controls until Hamas is completely disarmed.&nbsp;Hamas, which controls the remaining territory, has long opposed disarmament. It was unclear whether al-Hayya would meet Trump's son-in-law and negotiator Jared Kushner, Board of Peace high representative Nickolay Mladenov, or executive board member and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The three are expected to travel to Israel and Egypt this week.<h2>Iran and Qatar dispute claims over missing pilots</h2>In another development, Iran accused Qatar of holding three Iranian pilots whose aircraft were downed in March. Qatar rejected the allegation. Iran's Armed Forces General Staff's Missing Persons Committee said Qatar's armed forces had captured and were holding the three pilots, who went missing after their jets were shot down in March. Iranian state television reported Sunday that the committee's commander had called on Qatar to allow Iranian Air Force experts to conduct an investigation at the site.&nbsp;In a statement released Saturday, the committee claimed the pilots had not been permitted to communicate with their families or Iranian officials involved in their cases. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari denied the allegation. In a post on X, he said the pilots had been shot down and that Qatari search-and-rescue teams had recovered the remains of one of them.&nbsp;The developments come as the Iran war continues to reshape the security situation across the Middle East, with the US military presence, the Strait of Hormuz, Israel-Hezbollah tensions, Gaza ceasefire negotiations and the Iran-Qatar dispute emerging as key regional flashpoints.

US-Iran war updates: Admiral Brad Cooper visits USS Lincoln, Israel strikes Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas holds Gaza ceasefire talks in Cairo and Iran disputes Qatar over missing pilots

US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper visited the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea during a 10-day tour of the Middle East that concluded on Saturday, as the US military's war with Iran and wider regional tensions continued to dominate developments. Cooper's visit came amid reports of mental health concerns and supply problems aboard the aircraft carrier. The Lincoln arrived in the Middle East in January and has been supporting the US military campaign against Iran, including operations linked to the blockade of Iranian ports. The carrier has spent more than 240 consecutive days at sea, setting a record. Its extended deployment has renewed concerns about the impact of prolonged operations on both the ship and its more than 5,000 sailors and Marines. In a statement issued on Saturday, Cooper described the deployment as historic, saying, “History will record this deployment as one of the most operationally intense and consequential of the modern era.” According to Central Command, Cooper also visited Bahrain, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where he met civilian and military leaders. The US Navy's blockade followed Iran's declaration of control over the Strait of Hormuz after the war started on February 28 with US and Israeli strikes. Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of the world's traded oil and natural gas passed through the strategic waterway at the entrance to the Persian Gulf. Diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran have stalled. Iran is separately holding discussions with Oman over how the Strait of Hormuz should be managed, despite the waterway having traditionally been regarded as an international passage. 'Hezbollah commanders killed in Lebanon strikes': Israel Meanwhile, Israel said its military strikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday targeted two Hezbollah commanders. Lebanese authorities and the country's state news agency reported that at least 11 people were killed in two separate attacks. The strikes were described as the deadliest since a truce between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, took effect in June. Israel's military said early Sunday that a later strike killed Abu Hassan Alaa, whom it described as a senior Hezbollah commander. Israel said he had participated in attacks against Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon and had led militants involved in attacks targeting Israeli soldiers and civilians over several years. Earlier, the Israeli military said a strike in Ansar killed Ali Samir Al-Haj Hassan, whom it also identified as a Hezbollah commander. The military said his family was present but was not targeted. The developments come after Israel and Lebanon announced a framework agreement in late June outlining a potential Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon in return for Hezbollah's disarmament. The proposed framework also envisages steps toward an eventual peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon, which remain technically at war nearly eight decades after Israel's establishment. Hezbollah has rejected direct negotiations and was not a party to the US-mediated agreement. Also Read: Wildfires rage across Greece and Croatia as tourists flee; firefighters battle flames and smoke Hamas delegation arrives in Cairo for Gaza ceasefire talks A Hamas delegation led by group leader Khalil al-Hayya arrived in Cairo on Sunday for talks related to a Gaza ceasefire, Hamas said. Egyptian state-run media reported that al-Hayya met Major General Hassan Rashad, head of Egypt's intelligence service. Al-Qahera News television said al-Hayya reaffirmed Hamas' commitment to implementing US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan 'to end the suffering of the residents of the Gaza Strip and to begin the reconstruction process'. The discussions came as mediators worked to advance a roadmap involving the disarmament of Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups in Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the transfer of administrative authority to Palestinian technocrats. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected Trump's latest proposal to revive the stalled ceasefire process. Netanyahu has said Israel will not withdraw from the roughly 60 per cent of Gaza it currently controls until Hamas is completely disarmed. Hamas, which controls the remaining territory, has long opposed disarmament. It was unclear whether al-Hayya would meet Trump's son-in-law and negotiator Jared Kushner, Board of Peace high representative Nickolay Mladenov, or executive board member and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The three are expected to travel to Israel and Egypt this week. Iran and Qatar dispute claims over missing pilots In another development, Iran accused Qatar of holding three Iranian pilots whose aircraft were downed in March. Qatar rejected the allegation. Iran's Armed Forces General Staff's Missing Persons Committee said Qatar's armed forces had captured and were holding the three pilots, who went missing after their jets were shot down in March. Iranian state television reported Sunday that the committee's commander had called on Qatar to allow Iranian Air Force experts to conduct an investigation at the site. In a statement released Saturday, the committee claimed the pilots had not been permitted to communicate with their families or Iranian officials involved in their cases. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari denied the allegation. In a post on X, he said the pilots had been shot down and that Qatari search-and-rescue teams had recovered the remains of one of them. The developments come as the Iran war continues to reshape the security situation across the Middle East, with the US military presence, the Strait of Hormuz, Israel-Hezbollah tensions, Gaza ceasefire negotiations and the Iran-Qatar dispute emerging as key regional flashpoints.

US, Israel, Iran and Hamas face rising tensions as the USS Lincoln patrols the region, Lebanon strikes kill 11 and Gaza ceasefire talks resume

US top commander visits USS Lincoln amid Iran war, Gaza and Lebanon tensions

Tourists and residents fled villages in Greece's Halkidiki region by land and sea on Thursday as a wildfire, driven by powerful winds, swept through homes and forests near a popular resort at the peak of the holiday season. Strong winds also hampered firefighting efforts on Croatia's popular Dalmatian coast, where a section of a major highway was closed because of a wildfire in the Lokva Rogoznica area, south of Omis, according to local media.&nbsp;Across Europe, a series of heatwaves this summer has intensified drought, put additional pressure on water supplies and left vegetation extremely dry. The conditions have helped wildfires in Spain, France and Greece burn areas approaching unprecedented levels. In Greece, people wearing face masks and carrying children and pets boarded dingies and boats in the seaside town of Siviri as flames tore through a forest. Thick columns of smoke darkened the otherwise cloudless sky.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-are-the-major-armed-groups-fighting-afghanistan-s-taliban-regime-1786878090252">EXPLAINED: Who are the major armed groups fighting Afghanistan's Taliban regime?</a>&nbsp;As the wildfire advanced from inland areas, flames destroyed holiday apartments and damaged their balconies overlooking the sea. The coast guard said more than 300 people had been evacuated by boat from Siviri, a picturesque peninsula south of Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki, known for its woodland, olive groves and beaches.Patrol and firefighting boats, along with fishing vessels, took part in the evacuation operation, the coast guard said in a statement. More than 140 firefighters were deployed to tackle flames burning on both sides of the main road connecting Siviri with Kassandreia. The fire brigade said nine aircraft and seven helicopters were also involved in the operation in a statement posted on X.&nbsp;One firefighter was injured, while traffic on the road was halted. "Our effort is focused on extinguishing the fire and the safe transport of people," fire brigade spokesman Giannis Artopios told Protothema news portal. Meanwhile, in Croatia, local media footage showed flames spreading among trees around a major road and in built-up coastal areas.&nbsp;Evacuations were also underway in the affected areas, according to reports citing the fire department. The fires come as southern Europe continues to face intense summer heat, with dry conditions and strong winds increasing the risk of rapidly spreading wildfires across popular holiday destinations.

Wildfires in Greece and Croatia force evacuations as strong winds, drought and European heatwaves fuel dangerous flames near holiday resorts

Tourists and residents fled villages in Greece's Halkidiki region by land and sea on Thursday as a wildfire, driven by powerful winds, swept through homes and forests near a popular resort at the peak of the holiday season. Strong winds also hampered firefighting efforts on Croatia's popular Dalmatian coast, where a section of a major highway was closed because of a wildfire in the Lokva Rogoznica area, south of Omis, according to local media. Across Europe, a series of heatwaves this summer has intensified drought, put additional pressure on water supplies and left vegetation extremely dry. The conditions have helped wildfires in Spain, France and Greece burn areas approaching unprecedented levels. In Greece, people wearing face masks and carrying children and pets boarded dingies and boats in the seaside town of Siviri as flames tore through a forest. Thick columns of smoke darkened the otherwise cloudless sky. Also Read: EXPLAINED: Who are the major armed groups fighting Afghanistan's Taliban regime? As the wildfire advanced from inland areas, flames destroyed holiday apartments and damaged their balconies overlooking the sea. The coast guard said more than 300 people had been evacuated by boat from Siviri, a picturesque peninsula south of Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki, known for its woodland, olive groves and beaches. Patrol and firefighting boats, along with fishing vessels, took part in the evacuation operation, the coast guard said in a statement. More than 140 firefighters were deployed to tackle flames burning on both sides of the main road connecting Siviri with Kassandreia. The fire brigade said nine aircraft and seven helicopters were also involved in the operation in a statement posted on X. One firefighter was injured, while traffic on the road was halted. "Our effort is focused on extinguishing the fire and the safe transport of people," fire brigade spokesman Giannis Artopios told Protothema news portal. Meanwhile, in Croatia, local media footage showed flames spreading among trees around a major road and in built-up coastal areas. Evacuations were also underway in the affected areas, according to reports citing the fire department. The fires come as southern Europe continues to face intense summer heat, with dry conditions and strong winds increasing the risk of rapidly spreading wildfires across popular holiday destinations.

Wildfires force mass evacuations in Greece and Croatia as strong winds and heatwaves fuel flames, threatening homes, roads and holiday resorts

Wildfires rage across Greece and Croatia as tourists flee; firefighters battle flames and smoke

Afghanistan's Taliban regime is confronting one of its most serious internal security challenges since seizing power in 2021, as armed resistance activity intensifies across the country's north and northeast. Reports indicate that over 10 organisations are launching attacks against citizens, where ministers and mayors have also been killed.<h3>Who is fighting the Taliban?</h3>Ever since the Taliban regime came into power, several armed factions have been reportedly active against them; however, a handful dominate the fighting. The UN reported claims that at least 22 armed groups had been opposing the Taliban in 26 provinces by September 2022. UNAMA recorded that three main groups (the NRF, the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF) and the Afghanistan Liberation Movement (ALM)) had launched attacks in eight provinces in 2023. The National Resistance Front (NRF), led by Ahmad Massoud, remains the most established, operating chiefly out of Panjshir and neighbouring provinces. Basically, the NRF is led from headquarters located in Tajikistan. The NRF emerged in the aftermath of the Taliban's takeover of Kabul in August 2021. Its ranks are said to bring together ordinary civilians, veterans of the former Afghan security forces, many of them junior officers, and figures from past opposition movements, united by their backing of the previous Islamic Republic and firm opposition to Taliban rule. In addition, anti-Taliban resistance groups like the Turkestan Freedom Tigers, the National Resistance Council, the National Liberation Front of Afghanistan (NLFA), the Unknown Soldiers of Hazaristan, the allegedly Hazara-centred Freedom and Democracy Front and the Freedom Corps are also active.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-project-75-i-submarine-programme-may-finally-take-off-with-germany-s-thyssenkrupp-but-why-did-it-take-decades-1786874034303"> India’s Project 75(I) submarine programme may finally launch with Germany's ThyssenKrupp. But why did it take decades?</a> Other groups also include, the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF), made up largely of former republic-era security personnel, which has escalated from guerrilla tactics to direct confrontations, with a senior AFF figure saying the group has moved into direct combat against the Taliban rather than relying solely on guerrilla warfare. Newer, lesser-known outfits such as Sepahian-e Mihan (Patriotic Soldiers Front) and the Homeland Soldiers Front have also claimed significant operations, alongside the Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K), which continues to target Taliban officials directly. The epicentre of the violence is Afghanistan's mountainous northeast, particularly in Badakhshan, Takhar, Panjshir and Baghlan.<h3>Why has Badakhshan become a hotspot?</h3>Several factors intersect in Badakhshan to make it the hotspot, including a predominantly ethnic-Tajik population historically resistant to Taliban (mostly Pashtun) rule, rugged terrain suited to guerrilla warfare, and fierce disputes over lucrative gold and lapis lazuli mines. Internal Taliban strains have compounded this; dissident commander Juma Khan Fateh, once a Taliban deputy governor, has turned against the movement amid disputes over mining control, triggering clashes that resistance groups have exploited. Two senior Taliban-appointed officials in Badakhshan, including the Faizabad mayor, have been assassinated within weeks of each other.<h3>Why does Taliban control still hold?</h3>Despite mounting pressure, the opposition remains fragmented, with distinct commands, limited coordination, and no unified political platform, historically the resistance's core weakness. The Taliban, meanwhile, has responded by rushing reinforcements and helicopters to contested districts and leaning on its still-superior manpower and weaponry.

The UN reported claims that at least 22 armed groups had been opposing the Taliban by September 2022. UNAMA recorded that three main groups (the NRF, the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF) and the Afghanistan Liberation Movement (ALM)) had launched attacks in eight provinces in 2023.

Afghanistan's Taliban regime is confronting one of its most serious internal security challenges since seizing power in 2021, as armed resistance activity intensifies across the country's north and northeast. Reports indicate that over 10 organisations are launching attacks against citizens, where ministers and mayors have also been killed. Who is fighting the Taliban? Ever since the Taliban regime came into power, several armed factions have been reportedly active against them; however, a handful dominate the fighting. The UN reported claims that at least 22 armed groups had been opposing the Taliban in 26 provinces by September 2022. UNAMA recorded that three main groups (the NRF, the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF) and the Afghanistan Liberation Movement (ALM)) had launched attacks in eight provinces in 2023. The National Resistance Front (NRF), led by Ahmad Massoud, remains the most established, operating chiefly out of Panjshir and neighbouring provinces. Basically, the NRF is led from headquarters located in Tajikistan. The NRF emerged in the aftermath of the Taliban's takeover of Kabul in August 2021. Its ranks are said to bring together ordinary civilians, veterans of the former Afghan security forces, many of them junior officers, and figures from past opposition movements, united by their backing of the previous Islamic Republic and firm opposition to Taliban rule. In addition, anti-Taliban resistance groups like the Turkestan Freedom Tigers, the National Resistance Council, the National Liberation Front of Afghanistan (NLFA), the Unknown Soldiers of Hazaristan, the allegedly Hazara-centred Freedom and Democracy Front and the Freedom Corps are also active. Also read: India’s Project 75(I) submarine programme may finally launch with Germany's ThyssenKrupp. But why did it take decades? Other groups also include, the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF), made up largely of former republic-era security personnel, which has escalated from guerrilla tactics to direct confrontations, with a senior AFF figure saying the group has moved into direct combat against the Taliban rather than relying solely on guerrilla warfare. Newer, lesser-known outfits such as Sepahian-e Mihan (Patriotic Soldiers Front) and the Homeland Soldiers Front have also claimed significant operations, alongside the Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K), which continues to target Taliban officials directly. The epicentre of the violence is Afghanistan's mountainous northeast, particularly in Badakhshan, Takhar, Panjshir and Baghlan. Why has Badakhshan become a hotspot? Several factors intersect in Badakhshan to make it the hotspot, including a predominantly ethnic-Tajik population historically resistant to Taliban (mostly Pashtun) rule, rugged terrain suited to guerrilla warfare, and fierce disputes over lucrative gold and lapis lazuli mines. Internal Taliban strains have compounded this; dissident commander Juma Khan Fateh, once a Taliban deputy governor, has turned against the movement amid disputes over mining control, triggering clashes that resistance groups have exploited. Two senior Taliban-appointed officials in Badakhshan, including the Faizabad mayor, have been assassinated within weeks of each other. Why does Taliban control still hold? Despite mounting pressure, the opposition remains fragmented, with distinct commands, limited coordination, and no unified political platform, historically the resistance's core weakness. The Taliban, meanwhile, has responded by rushing reinforcements and helicopters to contested districts and leaning on its still-superior manpower and weaponry.

The UN reported claims that at least 22 armed groups had been opposing the Taliban by September 2022. UNAMA recorded that three main groups (the NRF, the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF) and the Afghanistan Liberation Movement (ALM)) had launched attacks in eight provinces in 2023.

EXPLAINED: Who are the major armed groups fighting Afghanistan's Taliban regime?

Russia and Ukraine unleash one of their biggest waves of drone and missile strikes, hitting civilian areas, a Kyiv book market, a steel plant and Wildberries warehouses.

Russia and Ukraine unleash one of their biggest waves of drone and missile strikes, hitting civilian areas, a Kyiv book market, a steel plant and Wildberries warehouses.&nbsp;

Kyiv’s book market, Moscow’s Wildberries: ‘Massive’ overnight strikes devastate Russia, Ukraine

India’s long-delayed Project 75(I) submarine programme could finally be moving closer to fruition, with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) emerging as the preferred partner. A proposal for six advanced diesel-electric submarines fitted with air-independent propulsion (AIP) is expected to go before the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final clearance in the coming days, Indian media reports claimed. No official word had been received at the time of writing, but the reports said that if the CCS approves the deal, TKMS and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) would sign a contract worth roughly ₹70,000 crore.<h2>Why the Project 75(I) submarine programme is important for India</h2>Under the Project 75(I) programme, the submarines would be built primarily in India via a Strategic Partnership model. But Project 75(I) is more than just the delivery of six submarines. It seeks to deepen India’s ability to design, manufacture, maintain and upgrade sophisticated conventional submarines. Technology transfer from Germany is a central part of the arrangement.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-nuclear-attack-submarine-program-takes-shape-amid-china-threat-in-indo-pacific-714345/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-nuclear-attack-submarine-program-takes-shape-amid-china-threat-in-indo-pacific-714345/embed</a><h2>Why did Project 75(I) take so long?</h2>India wanted an AIP-equipped submarine based on a system that had already been proven at sea. That narrowed the field of choices. Requirements for technology transfer and indigenous production added another layer of complexity.Even though construction would take place in India, foreign manufacturers were expected to assume significant responsibility. &nbsp;This led to long-drawn negotiations over pricing, intellectual property, industrial workshare and liability. The bidder landscape also changed. France’s Naval Group, Spain’s Navantia in partnership with L&amp;T, Russia, Japan, Sweden and other potential suppliers either withdrew, were eliminated or could not satisfy the programme’s evolving requirements.Repeated procedural hurdles, changing qualitative requirements, lengthy commercial discussions and a cautious defence procurement system contributed to delaying a programme.<h2>Why Germany is now the most likely partner for India’s Project 75(I) programme</h2>The German firm TKMS has an established AIP technology base and a history of submarine cooperation with India. The Indian Navy has operated German-designed Type 209/Shishumar-class submarines since the 1980s, giving the relationship a substantial operational legacy.The recent negotiations have focused on the technology-transfer aspect. Reports said German officials had expressed confidence that an agreement could be concluded soon.TKMS has also been strengthening its industrial footprint in India. Its subsidiary ATLAS ELEKTRONIK has been involved in cooperation with Hyderabad-based VEM Technologies on heavyweight torpedoes.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-india-s-project-75i-what-makes-it-crucial-to-india-s-naval-strategy-in-the-indo-pacific-1777105126638">What is India’s Project 75I? What makes it crucial to India’s naval strategy in the Indo-Pacific</a><h2>Project 75(I) is not simply a foreign submarine purchase: Thrust on local production</h2>MDL is expected to construct the submarines domestically while absorbing technology and manufacturing expertise from TKMS.Local content is projected to increase from about 45 per cent on the first submarine to around 60 per cent on subsequent boats. If a contract is signed soon, construction could begin thereafter, with the first vessel expected around 2032–33 and the remaining submarines following at approximately annual intervals.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-india-needs-k-5-nuclear-missile-for-its-arihant-class-submarines-1764316477631">Why India needs K-5 nuclear missile for its Arihant-Class submarines?</a>This approach attempts to balance two competing needs: rapidly strengthening the Navy’s conventional submarine fleet while developing an indigenous industrial base.For the Indian Navy, the urgency is clear. Ageing conventional submarines and capability gaps have increased the pressure to add modern boats capable of remaining submerged for longer periods.Project 75(I) also builds on the experience gained through Project 75, under which India has constructed the Kalvari-class submarines with French assistance. The programme is therefore intended not only to address the Navy’s immediate capability requirements, but also to expand India’s long-term capacity to build and sustain advanced conventional submarines domestically.

India’s Project 75(I) submarine programme is nearing a possible deal with Germany’s TKMS. Six AIP-equipped submarines could boost the Indian Navy while expanding India’s domestic submarine-building capacity. But why is it a long time coming?

India’s long-delayed Project 75(I) submarine programme could finally be moving closer to fruition, with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) emerging as the preferred partner. A proposal for six advanced diesel-electric submarines fitted with air-independent propulsion (AIP) is expected to go before the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final clearance in the coming days, Indian media reports claimed. No official word had been received at the time of writing, but the reports said that if the CCS approves the deal, TKMS and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) would sign a contract worth roughly ₹70,000 crore. Why the Project 75(I) submarine programme is important for India Under the Project 75(I) programme, the submarines would be built primarily in India via a Strategic Partnership model. But Project 75(I) is more than just the delivery of six submarines. It seeks to deepen India’s ability to design, manufacture, maintain and upgrade sophisticated conventional submarines. Technology transfer from Germany is a central part of the arrangement. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-nuclear-attack-submarine-program-takes-shape-amid-china-threat-in-indo-pacific-714345/embed Why did Project 75(I) take so long? India wanted an AIP-equipped submarine based on a system that had already been proven at sea. That narrowed the field of choices. Requirements for technology transfer and indigenous production added another layer of complexity. Even though construction would take place in India, foreign manufacturers were expected to assume significant responsibility. This led to long-drawn negotiations over pricing, intellectual property, industrial workshare and liability. The bidder landscape also changed. France’s Naval Group, Spain’s Navantia in partnership with L&T, Russia, Japan, Sweden and other potential suppliers either withdrew, were eliminated or could not satisfy the programme’s evolving requirements. Repeated procedural hurdles, changing qualitative requirements, lengthy commercial discussions and a cautious defence procurement system contributed to delaying a programme. Why Germany is now the most likely partner for India’s Project 75(I) programme The German firm TKMS has an established AIP technology base and a history of submarine cooperation with India. The Indian Navy has operated German-designed Type 209/Shishumar-class submarines since the 1980s, giving the relationship a substantial operational legacy. The recent negotiations have focused on the technology-transfer aspect. Reports said German officials had expressed confidence that an agreement could be concluded soon. TKMS has also been strengthening its industrial footprint in India. Its subsidiary ATLAS ELEKTRONIK has been involved in cooperation with Hyderabad-based VEM Technologies on heavyweight torpedoes. Also read: What is India’s Project 75I? What makes it crucial to India’s naval strategy in the Indo-Pacific Project 75(I) is not simply a foreign submarine purchase: Thrust on local production MDL is expected to construct the submarines domestically while absorbing technology and manufacturing expertise from TKMS. Local content is projected to increase from about 45 per cent on the first submarine to around 60 per cent on subsequent boats. If a contract is signed soon, construction could begin thereafter, with the first vessel expected around 2032–33 and the remaining submarines following at approximately annual intervals. Also read: Why India needs K-5 nuclear missile for its Arihant-Class submarines? This approach attempts to balance two competing needs: rapidly strengthening the Navy’s conventional submarine fleet while developing an indigenous industrial base. For the Indian Navy, the urgency is clear. Ageing conventional submarines and capability gaps have increased the pressure to add modern boats capable of remaining submerged for longer periods. Project 75(I) also builds on the experience gained through Project 75, under which India has constructed the Kalvari-class submarines with French assistance. The programme is therefore intended not only to address the Navy’s immediate capability requirements, but also to expand India’s long-term capacity to build and sustain advanced conventional submarines domestically.

India’s Project 75(I) submarine programme is nearing a possible deal with Germany’s TKMS. Six AIP-equipped submarines could boost the Indian Navy while expanding India’s domestic submarine-building capacity. But why is it a long time coming?

India’s Project 75(I) submarine programme may finally launch with Germany's ThyssenKrupp. But why did it take decades?

Born in Chandigarh, Flight Lieutenant Arshdeep Singh Dang made history on August 14, when he received his fighter pilot wings from the British Royal Air Force. Flight Lieutenant Arshdeep Singh Dang has become the first Sikh in Britain’s Royal Air Force to earn his fighter wings in the country’s post-war era. 28-year-old Dang joined the RAF in 2021. He passed his wings test in July, four years after graduating from Officer training in 2022 and undergoing rigorous Fast Jet training. Dang is the only Indian-origin pilot from his batch, and now the first Sikh fighter pilot for British Air Force in 81 years. Dang’s family moved to the UK when he was just 6 years old.&nbsp;Speaking to WION over the phone, Arshdeep talked about the reasons and circumstances in his life, that helped him chart this journey to a fighter pilot. “Growing up in UK in the early 2000s, I saw little Sikh representation around me, especially in important positions. I want to see the identity and the voices of the community strengthen. Sikhs have been an important part of Britain’s military history; I want to keep that tradition alive and inspire others too.”&nbsp;But the journey has not been an easy one for the 28-year-old. Arshdeep graduated as a mathematics and philosophy graduate from the University of Bristol, but his family has undergone years of financial struggle. The young fighter pilot says his mother’s journey in overcoming challenges while raising him, played a key role in inspiring him. “I wanted to do this for my mother, who has faced unsurmountable odds, but still raised me to be grounded and rooted in Sikh values.”<h2>Long-standing contribution of Sikhs in RAF</h2>&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh Dang’s feat marks a long history of Sikhs achieving military heights in UK. Hardit Singh Malik was the very first Indian-origin pilot in Britain, during World War I. Known as the Flying Sikh of Biggin Hill, Malik was born in Punjab in 1894, but his family sent him to England at the age of 14.&nbsp;Malik was given an ‘honorary’ commission as a second Lieutenant, after a recommendation from his tutor at Oxford. For his flying missions, he had a special helmet made to fit over his turban. During World War II, Squadron Leader Mohinder Singh Pujji volunteered with the British Royal Air Force and emerged as a distinguished fighter pilot. Pujji is also remembered for breaking stereotypes, and refusing to fly the Hurricanes fighter aircraft without wearing his turban.

Flight Lieutenant Arshdeep Singh Dang has become the first Sikh in Britain’s Royal Air Force to earn his fighter wings in the country’s post-war era

Born in Chandigarh, Flight Lieutenant Arshdeep Singh Dang made history on August 14, when he received his fighter pilot wings from the British Royal Air Force. Flight Lieutenant Arshdeep Singh Dang has become the first Sikh in Britain’s Royal Air Force to earn his fighter wings in the country’s post-war era. 28-year-old Dang joined the RAF in 2021. He passed his wings test in July, four years after graduating from Officer training in 2022 and undergoing rigorous Fast Jet training. Dang is the only Indian-origin pilot from his batch, and now the first Sikh fighter pilot for British Air Force in 81 years. Dang’s family moved to the UK when he was just 6 years old. Speaking to WION over the phone, Arshdeep talked about the reasons and circumstances in his life, that helped him chart this journey to a fighter pilot. “Growing up in UK in the early 2000s, I saw little Sikh representation around me, especially in important positions. I want to see the identity and the voices of the community strengthen. Sikhs have been an important part of Britain’s military history; I want to keep that tradition alive and inspire others too.” But the journey has not been an easy one for the 28-year-old. Arshdeep graduated as a mathematics and philosophy graduate from the University of Bristol, but his family has undergone years of financial struggle. The young fighter pilot says his mother’s journey in overcoming challenges while raising him, played a key role in inspiring him. “I wanted to do this for my mother, who has faced unsurmountable odds, but still raised me to be grounded and rooted in Sikh values.” Long-standing contribution of Sikhs in RAF Arshdeep Singh Dang’s feat marks a long history of Sikhs achieving military heights in UK. Hardit Singh Malik was the very first Indian-origin pilot in Britain, during World War I. Known as the Flying Sikh of Biggin Hill, Malik was born in Punjab in 1894, but his family sent him to England at the age of 14. Malik was given an ‘honorary’ commission as a second Lieutenant, after a recommendation from his tutor at Oxford. For his flying missions, he had a special helmet made to fit over his turban. During World War II, Squadron Leader Mohinder Singh Pujji volunteered with the British Royal Air Force and emerged as a distinguished fighter pilot. Pujji is also remembered for breaking stereotypes, and refusing to fly the Hurricanes fighter aircraft without wearing his turban.

Flight Lieutenant Arshdeep Singh Dang has become the first Sikh in Britain’s Royal Air Force to earn his fighter wings in the country’s post-war era. The RAF announced this historic feat during a ceremony on August 14, during a ceremony at RAF valley in North Wales

Britain gets its first Sikh fighter pilot since World War II

An Iranian lawmaker mocked US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Aug 16) over his threat to take control of the Strait of Hormuz, telling the US president to worry about his own safety instead. Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee said that Trump is bluffing everyone by making false claims on the Strait of Hormuz. He reminded that Trump should take care of his own safety as it was he who had to hide away in a catering truck during his departure from Turkey last month after reports of Iranian assassination.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraqi-militias-houthis-emerge-as-key-iranian-allies-as-iran-rebuilds-axis-of-resistance-1786723256430">Iraqi militias &amp; Houthis emerge as key Iranian allies as Iran rebuilds axis of resistance</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump’s secret departure from Turkey in a catering cart became a major news last week. After the NATO summit in Turkey on July 8, Trump was seen boarding the Air Force One but then he swapped the planes amid threat from Iran as per Israeli intelligence report. He confirmed that he was shifted in a catering cart in an unmarked military aircraft. The Washington Post first reported about the development. The original Air Force One continued its journey with journalists and some White House staff on board. It reportedly acted as a decoy to make it harder to identify Trump’s actual aircraft. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-hormuz-passage-deal-reached-with-oman-reopening-tied-to-us-lifting-blockade-1786804702036">Iran says Hormuz passage deal reached with Oman, reopening tied to US lifting blockade</a>&nbsp;Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, made the remarks in a social media post a day after Trump said the US Navy was maintaining a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and suggested that Washington could claim the strait as US territory after defeating Iran. “The US President ought to worry about his own security rather than his endless bluffing regarding the Strait of Hormuz; before he ends up hiding in a food truck,” Ebrahim Azizi wrote on X.

Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi mocked Donald Trump over his threat to take control of the Strait of Hormuz, telling the US president to focus on his own security. Azizi referenced reports that Trump was moved in a catering truck during his departure from Turkey amid an alleged Iranian threat.

An Iranian lawmaker mocked US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Aug 16) over his threat to take control of the Strait of Hormuz, telling the US president to worry about his own safety instead. Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee said that Trump is bluffing everyone by making false claims on the Strait of Hormuz. He reminded that Trump should take care of his own safety as it was he who had to hide away in a catering truck during his departure from Turkey last month after reports of Iranian assassination. Also Read: Iraqi militias & Houthis emerge as key Iranian allies as Iran rebuilds axis of resistance US President Donald Trump’s secret departure from Turkey in a catering cart became a major news last week. After the NATO summit in Turkey on July 8, Trump was seen boarding the Air Force One but then he swapped the planes amid threat from Iran as per Israeli intelligence report. He confirmed that he was shifted in a catering cart in an unmarked military aircraft. The Washington Post first reported about the development. The original Air Force One continued its journey with journalists and some White House staff on board. It reportedly acted as a decoy to make it harder to identify Trump’s actual aircraft. Also Read: Iran says Hormuz passage deal reached with Oman, reopening tied to US lifting blockade Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, made the remarks in a social media post a day after Trump said the US Navy was maintaining a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and suggested that Washington could claim the strait as US territory after defeating Iran. “The US President ought to worry about his own security rather than his endless bluffing regarding the Strait of Hormuz; before he ends up hiding in a food truck,” Ebrahim Azizi wrote on X.

Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi mocked Donald Trump over his threat to take control of the Strait of Hormuz, telling the US president to focus on his own security. Azizi referenced reports that Trump was moved in a catering truck during his departure from Turkey amid an alleged Iranian threat.

'Worry about his own security': Iran official's warning to Trump amid claims on Hormuz

Bangladesh has said a favourable atmosphere must first be created before Prime Minister Tarique Rahman can undertake a bilateral visit to India, and has reiterated its request for the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.A.K.M. Shahidul Karim, spokesperson for Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said officials from both countries had been in contact for several weeks about the possibility of Mr Rahman’s visit. “However, this process was vitiated by the open press interaction by Sheikh Hasina on 5th Aug, who has been convicted by the tribunal for committing crime against humanity,” he said.“We have made our position clear on this matter. We are of the view that a propitious environment needs to be created for the visit. To this end we have requested the Indian authorities to act on our request to extradite Sheikh Hasina and other fugitive criminals, and hand over accused killers of Hadi. We are awaiting their response.”Mr Karim added that Bangladesh would continue to pursue a “Bangladesh first” policy to promote friendly ties with neighbours on the basis of sovereign equality, national dignity, non-interference and mutual benefit.India and Bangladesh have been examining possible dates for Rahman’s first official visit to New Delhi, with windows around 21 August and the first week of September under consideration. No final dates have been confirmed. The invitation was initially extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a telephone call after Mr Rahman’s election victory in February. New Delhi later renewed the offer in Mr Rahman’s capacity as BIMSTEC chair, inviting him to the BRICS summit in Delhi in September.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bangladesh-explore-fresh-dates-for-pm-rahman-s-delhi-visit-1786685490038">India and Bangladesh explore fresh dates for PM Rahman’s Delhi visit</a>Last week has seen a flurry of diplomatic contacts aimed at stabilising relations. On 10 August, India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, called on Bangladesh PM Rahman and separately met the home minister in Dhaka. The chief of India’s Research and Analysis Wing, Parag Jain, was also in the Bangladeshi capital for consultations. The following day High Commissioner Trivedi returned to Delhi and briefed PM Modi on the developments. India’s Ministry of External Affairs publicly restated the invitation for Mr Rahman to participate in the BRICS summit.The High Commissioner earlier this month also met Bangladesh’s Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood to discuss cooperation in the power and energy sectors. Dhaka sought increased diesel supplies from India, according to Bangladeshi media reports.Relations have been strained by the continued presence of Sheikh Hasina in India and a virtual press conference she held on 5 August. Dhaka expressed “outrage” over the event and the platform provided to her. India’s Ministry of External Affairs distanced itself from her remarks, stating that it did not endorse the comments.

India and Bangladesh have been examining possible dates for Rahman’s first official visit to New Delhi, with windows around 21 August and the first week of September under consideration. No final dates have been confirmed.

Bangladesh has said a favourable atmosphere must first be created before Prime Minister Tarique Rahman can undertake a bilateral visit to India, and has reiterated its request for the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. A.K.M. Shahidul Karim, spokesperson for Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said officials from both countries had been in contact for several weeks about the possibility of Mr Rahman’s visit. “However, this process was vitiated by the open press interaction by Sheikh Hasina on 5th Aug, who has been convicted by the tribunal for committing crime against humanity,” he said. “We have made our position clear on this matter. We are of the view that a propitious environment needs to be created for the visit. To this end we have requested the Indian authorities to act on our request to extradite Sheikh Hasina and other fugitive criminals, and hand over accused killers of Hadi. We are awaiting their response.” Mr Karim added that Bangladesh would continue to pursue a “Bangladesh first” policy to promote friendly ties with neighbours on the basis of sovereign equality, national dignity, non-interference and mutual benefit. India and Bangladesh have been examining possible dates for Rahman’s first official visit to New Delhi, with windows around 21 August and the first week of September under consideration. No final dates have been confirmed. The invitation was initially extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a telephone call after Mr Rahman’s election victory in February. New Delhi later renewed the offer in Mr Rahman’s capacity as BIMSTEC chair, inviting him to the BRICS summit in Delhi in September. Also read | India and Bangladesh explore fresh dates for PM Rahman’s Delhi visit Last week has seen a flurry of diplomatic contacts aimed at stabilising relations. On 10 August, India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, called on Bangladesh PM Rahman and separately met the home minister in Dhaka. The chief of India’s Research and Analysis Wing, Parag Jain, was also in the Bangladeshi capital for consultations. The following day High Commissioner Trivedi returned to Delhi and briefed PM Modi on the developments. India’s Ministry of External Affairs publicly restated the invitation for Mr Rahman to participate in the BRICS summit. The High Commissioner earlier this month also met Bangladesh’s Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood to discuss cooperation in the power and energy sectors. Dhaka sought increased diesel supplies from India, according to Bangladeshi media reports. Relations have been strained by the continued presence of Sheikh Hasina in India and a virtual press conference she held on 5 August. Dhaka expressed “outrage” over the event and the platform provided to her. India’s Ministry of External Affairs distanced itself from her remarks, stating that it did not endorse the comments.

India and Bangladesh have been examining possible dates for Rahman’s first official visit to New Delhi, with windows around 21 August and the first week of September under consideration. No final dates have been confirmed.

Dhaka says ‘propitious environment’ needed for Bangladesh PM Rahman’s India visit; restates Hasina extradition demand

The journalists travelling with Donald Trump from Turkey to the UK in July, when he decided to switch planes over security concerns, were unaware that the US president had secretly left Air Force One in a catering van before moving to another aircraft. In the July incident, Trump was moved to the new, Qatari-gifted Air Force One in Britain, amid intelligence inputs that Iran was aware of his exact location. Reports suggested a possible assassination attempt. It was not clear whether the journalists or government staff aboard Air Force One faced a direct threat.<h2>What happened to the journalists' plane in Turkey?</h2>About a dozen journalists travelled with Trump to Ankara to cover Trump's foreign trip that included attending the NATO summit. They represented ABC News, Agence France-Presse (AFP), the Associated Press (AP), Bloomberg, Getty, The New York Times, NPR, Politico, Reuters and One America News.Some noticed unusual activity before take-off. Three of them saw a catering truck positioned unusually close to the aircraft.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-secret-plane-switch-sparks-catering-cart-memes-online-ai-obama-and-biden-have-the-last-laugh-1786555196467">Trump’s secret plane switch sparks ‘catering cart’ memes online, AI Obama and Biden have the last laugh</a>&nbsp;“You’re not really looking for the president to be slipping into a catering van,” one journalist said.After take-off, staff instructed passengers to keep their window shades closed without explaining why. Journalists noted that such instructions were more familiar from flights to or from war zones.One reporter noticed that Trump boarded unusually quickly, while another was surprised that he did not brief the press before the first leg of the journey. Trump later spoke to reporters.The Boeing 747 carrying the press and officials has defensive systems, including flares designed to counter missiles. Two US officials also said F-16 fighter jets escorted the aircraft, with one saying some fighters flew near Trump's plane for part of the journey.The Post reported that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) had “low confidence” in an Iranian threat.<h2>What journalists travelling with Trump said about his plane switch</h2>The Washington Post cited four journalists as saying that they noticed unusual details during the flight that only made sense in hindsight. The White House neither briefed them during the journey nor explained the operation afterwards, leaving some feeling disappointed and deceived and questioning whether their safety had been properly considered. “We never were provided any opportunity to consent to being used like this,” The Post cited one journalist as saying.&nbsp;The journalist added that they were neither Air Force nor Secret Service personnel and had not signed up to put themselves at risk to protect the president.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whatever-it-is-you-know-my-attitude-trump-confirms-switching-to-secret-flight-after-leaving-turkey-1786499985865">'Whatever it is, you know my attitude...': Trump CONFIRMS switching to secret flight after leaving Turkey</a><h2>An issue of trust between the White House and the press corps</h2>Press organisations criticised the operation. National Press Club president Mark Schoeff Jr said that leaving reporters aboard an aircraft as part of a security deception was “deeply troubling”.Committee to Protect Journalists representative José Zamora said transparency should be the norm when safety is at stake.Calling the episode “outright deception”, New York Times Washington bureau chief Richard W Stevenson said it set a “terrible precedent” because journalists and staff were unknowingly exposed to a potential threat.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-says-aircraft-switch-prompted-by-threat-1786511748271/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-says-aircraft-switch-prompted-by-threat-1786511748271/embed</a>AFP regional director Marc Lavine said it was concerning when a media organisation discovered it had been misled, particularly when the safety of its reporters was involved.White House Correspondents’ Association president Jacqui Heinrich said reporters should have a way to correct inaccurate or misleading information once a security operation has ended. Without such a mechanism, she said, journalists could question whether information they independently observe and report “can be relied upon.”

Journalists who had accompanied Trump said his secret plane switch in July left them feeling deceived and exposed to a potential Iranian threat. Was the White House transparent about press safety?

The journalists travelling with Donald Trump from Turkey to the UK in July, when he decided to switch planes over security concerns, were unaware that the US president had secretly left Air Force One in a catering van before moving to another aircraft. In the July incident, Trump was moved to the new, Qatari-gifted Air Force One in Britain, amid intelligence inputs that Iran was aware of his exact location. Reports suggested a possible assassination attempt. It was not clear whether the journalists or government staff aboard Air Force One faced a direct threat. What happened to the journalists' plane in Turkey? About a dozen journalists travelled with Trump to Ankara to cover Trump's foreign trip that included attending the NATO summit. They represented ABC News, Agence France-Presse (AFP), the Associated Press (AP), Bloomberg, Getty, The New York Times, NPR, Politico, Reuters and One America News. Some noticed unusual activity before take-off. Three of them saw a catering truck positioned unusually close to the aircraft. Also read: Trump’s secret plane switch sparks ‘catering cart’ memes online, AI Obama and Biden have the last laugh “You’re not really looking for the president to be slipping into a catering van,” one journalist said. After take-off, staff instructed passengers to keep their window shades closed without explaining why. Journalists noted that such instructions were more familiar from flights to or from war zones. One reporter noticed that Trump boarded unusually quickly, while another was surprised that he did not brief the press before the first leg of the journey. Trump later spoke to reporters. The Boeing 747 carrying the press and officials has defensive systems, including flares designed to counter missiles. Two US officials also said F-16 fighter jets escorted the aircraft, with one saying some fighters flew near Trump's plane for part of the journey. The Post reported that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) had “low confidence” in an Iranian threat. What journalists travelling with Trump said about his plane switch The Washington Post cited four journalists as saying that they noticed unusual details during the flight that only made sense in hindsight. The White House neither briefed them during the journey nor explained the operation afterwards, leaving some feeling disappointed and deceived and questioning whether their safety had been properly considered. “We never were provided any opportunity to consent to being used like this,” The Post cited one journalist as saying. The journalist added that they were neither Air Force nor Secret Service personnel and had not signed up to put themselves at risk to protect the president. Also read: 'Whatever it is, you know my attitude...': Trump CONFIRMS switching to secret flight after leaving Turkey An issue of trust between the White House and the press corps Press organisations criticised the operation. National Press Club president Mark Schoeff Jr said that leaving reporters aboard an aircraft as part of a security deception was “deeply troubling”. Committee to Protect Journalists representative José Zamora said transparency should be the norm when safety is at stake. Calling the episode “outright deception”, New York Times Washington bureau chief Richard W Stevenson said it set a “terrible precedent” because journalists and staff were unknowingly exposed to a potential threat. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-says-aircraft-switch-prompted-by-threat-1786511748271/embed AFP regional director Marc Lavine said it was concerning when a media organisation discovered it had been misled, particularly when the safety of its reporters was involved. White House Correspondents’ Association president Jacqui Heinrich said reporters should have a way to correct inaccurate or misleading information once a security operation has ended. Without such a mechanism, she said, journalists could question whether information they independently observe and report “can be relied upon.”

Journalists who had accompanied Trump said his secret plane switch in July left them feeling deceived and exposed to a potential Iranian threat. Was the White House transparent about press safety?

'Deceived': Did White House put at risk the journalists travelling with Trump during plane switch? What they say

At least 12 people were killed and 10 others injured after a Polish-registered bus overturned on a highway in eastern Hungary early Sunday, authorities said. The crash took place on the M3 motorway near Mezokeresztes, as the bus was travelling towards Nyiregyhaza. Police said the vehicle veered off a straight section of the road, entered a ditch and overturned.Initial information indicated that the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. Police said they were taking the driver into custody as the investigation into the circumstances of the crash continued.Hungary’s state news agency MTI reported that 57 passengers and two drivers were travelling on the bus. Images from the scene showed the red vehicle lying on its side in a roadside ditch, with its windows shattered and luggage and personal belongings scattered across the area, Reuters reported.The injured passengers were taken to hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not yet released the victims’ identities or the nationalities of those injured.Polish officials expressed shock following the deadly crash. President Karol Nawrocki said on X: “It is with deep sorrow that I received the tragic news of the Polish bus accident in Hungary, in which so many of our compatriots died.”Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski also described the incident as a “tragic accident” involving a bus carrying Polish tourists.Sikorski said Poland’s consular services were working with Hungarian authorities and that officials were seeking verified information about the victims and the circumstances surrounding the crash.“The consular service is operational. We are in contact with the Hungarian authorities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will provide verified information,” he said.Hungarian police continued their investigation at the crash site, while emergency teams worked to assist the injured and secure the area. Authorities are expected to establish the exact cause of the accident as the probe progresses. &nbsp;

A Polish-registered bus carrying tourists overturned on a motorway in eastern Hungary, killing 12 and injuring at least 10. Police said the driver may have fallen asleep on the wheel.

At least 12 people were killed and 10 others injured after a Polish-registered bus overturned on a highway in eastern Hungary early Sunday, authorities said. The crash took place on the M3 motorway near Mezokeresztes, as the bus was travelling towards Nyiregyhaza. Police said the vehicle veered off a straight section of the road, entered a ditch and overturned. Initial information indicated that the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. Police said they were taking the driver into custody as the investigation into the circumstances of the crash continued. Hungary’s state news agency MTI reported that 57 passengers and two drivers were travelling on the bus. Images from the scene showed the red vehicle lying on its side in a roadside ditch, with its windows shattered and luggage and personal belongings scattered across the area, Reuters reported. The injured passengers were taken to hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not yet released the victims’ identities or the nationalities of those injured. Polish officials expressed shock following the deadly crash. President Karol Nawrocki said on X: “It is with deep sorrow that I received the tragic news of the Polish bus accident in Hungary, in which so many of our compatriots died.” Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski also described the incident as a “tragic accident” involving a bus carrying Polish tourists. Sikorski said Poland’s consular services were working with Hungarian authorities and that officials were seeking verified information about the victims and the circumstances surrounding the crash. “The consular service is operational. We are in contact with the Hungarian authorities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will provide verified information,” he said. Hungarian police continued their investigation at the crash site, while emergency teams worked to assist the injured and secure the area. Authorities are expected to establish the exact cause of the accident as the probe progresses.

A Polish-registered bus carrying tourists overturned on a motorway in eastern Hungary, killing 12 and injuring at least 10. Police said the driver may have fallen asleep on the wheel.

At least 12 killed, 10 injured after Polish tourist bus overturns in Hungary

A Spanish fighter jet on NATO duties shot down a drone after it breached Romanian airspace near the country’s border with Ukraine and Moldova, Romania’s defence ministry said on Sunday (Aug 16). The drone entered from Moldova and was intercepted by an F-18 deployed on NATO duties.The ministry added that the debris fell in the Galati region near the Ukrainian border, an unpopulated area. The incident happened at 5:01 am local time. According to authorities, no casualties or damage was immediately reported.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-replacing-uss-abraham-lincoln-amid-reports-of-suffering-troops-new-aircraft-carrier-to-arrive-in-middle-east-1786681186213">US replacing USS Abraham Lincoln amid reports of suffering troops? New aircraft carrier to arrive in Middle East</a>Romania’s Black Sea coast lies close to Ukrainian areas that have repeatedly come under Russian attack. In particular, Ukrainian ports along the Danube River, situated close to Romania’s border, have been targeted during the war.Romanian authorities have repeatedly found fragments of drones on their territory since 2023 following Russian strikes in the region. The latest incident, however, highlights the increasing pressure on NATO’s air-defence systems as drones linked to the conflict cross into allied airspace.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exercises-in-name-expansion-in-fact-taiwan-slams-planned-china-indonesia-drill-as-political-manipulation-1786507824356">‘Exercises in name, expansion in fact’: Taiwan slams planned China-Indonesia drill as ‘political manipulation’</a>Last month, Romania also shot down a drone after it entered the country’s airspace roughly 100 kilometres (60 miles) from Bucharest. It was the first time Romania had taken such action since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Similar airspace incidents have raised concerns across NATO’s eastern flank. Poland and the Baltic states have also reported breaches linked to the war.On Friday, NATO said Italian fighter jets operating under its air-policing mission shot down a drone that had entered Latvian airspace.The latest Romanian incident comes as NATO members maintain heightened vigilance over their airspace, particularly along the alliance’s border with Ukraine.

A Spanish F-18 shot down a drone after it breached Romanian airspace near Ukraine and Moldova. Debris fell in an unpopulated area, as NATO faces growing airspace threats linked to the war.

A Spanish fighter jet on NATO duties shot down a drone after it breached Romanian airspace near the country’s border with Ukraine and Moldova, Romania’s defence ministry said on Sunday (Aug 16). The drone entered from Moldova and was intercepted by an F-18 deployed on NATO duties. The ministry added that the debris fell in the Galati region near the Ukrainian border, an unpopulated area. The incident happened at 5:01 am local time. According to authorities, no casualties or damage was immediately reported. Also read | US replacing USS Abraham Lincoln amid reports of suffering troops? New aircraft carrier to arrive in Middle East Romania’s Black Sea coast lies close to Ukrainian areas that have repeatedly come under Russian attack. In particular, Ukrainian ports along the Danube River, situated close to Romania’s border, have been targeted during the war. Romanian authorities have repeatedly found fragments of drones on their territory since 2023 following Russian strikes in the region. The latest incident, however, highlights the increasing pressure on NATO’s air-defence systems as drones linked to the conflict cross into allied airspace. Also read | ‘Exercises in name, expansion in fact’: Taiwan slams planned China-Indonesia drill as ‘political manipulation’ Last month, Romania also shot down a drone after it entered the country’s airspace roughly 100 kilometres (60 miles) from Bucharest. It was the first time Romania had taken such action since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Similar airspace incidents have raised concerns across NATO’s eastern flank. Poland and the Baltic states have also reported breaches linked to the war. On Friday, NATO said Italian fighter jets operating under its air-policing mission shot down a drone that had entered Latvian airspace. The latest Romanian incident comes as NATO members maintain heightened vigilance over their airspace, particularly along the alliance’s border with Ukraine.

A Spanish F-18 shot down a drone after it breached Romanian airspace near Ukraine and Moldova. Debris fell in an unpopulated area, as NATO faces growing airspace threats linked to the war.

Spanish F-18 shoots down drone after it breaches Romanian airspace near Ukraine

Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed is in mid of controversy after “pet massacre” allegations surfaced against him. His tenure as Detroit Health Director is facing renewed scrutiny. According to Fox News Digital report, during his tenure, Detroit's animal control department mistreated animal and reportedly branded a "slaughterhouse" by a former employee. Detroit Animal Care and Control’s (DACC) live-release rate was about 20% to 26% when El-Sayed inherited the operation back in 2015. However, it increased to about 61% to 62% by late 2016, which is an improvement his campaign points to.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-panel-recommends-contempt-action-against-anthony-fauci-over-covid-hearing-1786026265157">US Senate panel recommends contempt action against Anthony Fauci over Covid hearing</a>&nbsp;According to the Daily Mail, records from the period surrounding El-Sayed’s tenure indicate that up to 4,680 dogs and cats were euthanized. The report said 1,056 dogs and 29 cats were euthanized during the first full calendar year that Detroit Animal Care and Control operated under El-Sayed’s Health Department.The figures have prompted animal rights advocates to question PETA’s response to the allegations. Several users on X have called on the organisation to address the controversy and explain its silence on the matter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-needs-to-be-a-declaration-of-war-trump-wins-senate-vote-but-cassidy-draws-red-line-on-iran-1785438584931">'There needs to be a declaration of war': Trump wins Senate vote, but Cassidy draws red line on Iran</a>&nbsp;The allegations are partly linked to an October 2015 whistleblower lawsuit filed by former Detroit Animal Control officer Brittany Roberts. According to the Daily Mail, Roberts alleged that animals were kept in unhygienic conditions, deprived of adequate food and medical care, and that some died as a result. She also claimed she faced harassment and was eventually fired after raising concerns about the conditions.&nbsp;The lawsuit was filed shortly after Detroit Animal Control was transferred from the Detroit Police Department to the Health Department, which was headed by Abdul El-Sayed at the time. Roberts described the situation as deeply distressing, saying she felt ashamed to be part of a system in which numerous dogs died in their cages. She alleged that staff would begin each morning by checking which animals had survived the night before feeding them. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed faces renewed scrutiny over alleged animal mistreatment during his tenure as Detroit health director. Records reportedly show thousands of dogs and cats were euthanized, while critics have called for PETA to respond to the allegations.

Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed is in mid of controversy after “pet massacre” allegations surfaced against him. His tenure as Detroit Health Director is facing renewed scrutiny. According to Fox News Digital report, during his tenure, Detroit's animal control department mistreated animal and reportedly branded a "slaughterhouse" by a former employee. Detroit Animal Care and Control’s (DACC) live-release rate was about 20% to 26% when El-Sayed inherited the operation back in 2015. However, it increased to about 61% to 62% by late 2016, which is an improvement his campaign points to. Also Read: US Senate panel recommends contempt action against Anthony Fauci over Covid hearing According to the Daily Mail, records from the period surrounding El-Sayed’s tenure indicate that up to 4,680 dogs and cats were euthanized. The report said 1,056 dogs and 29 cats were euthanized during the first full calendar year that Detroit Animal Care and Control operated under El-Sayed’s Health Department. The figures have prompted animal rights advocates to question PETA’s response to the allegations. Several users on X have called on the organisation to address the controversy and explain its silence on the matter. Also Read: 'There needs to be a declaration of war': Trump wins Senate vote, but Cassidy draws red line on Iran The allegations are partly linked to an October 2015 whistleblower lawsuit filed by former Detroit Animal Control officer Brittany Roberts. According to the Daily Mail, Roberts alleged that animals were kept in unhygienic conditions, deprived of adequate food and medical care, and that some died as a result. She also claimed she faced harassment and was eventually fired after raising concerns about the conditions. The lawsuit was filed shortly after Detroit Animal Control was transferred from the Detroit Police Department to the Health Department, which was headed by Abdul El-Sayed at the time. Roberts described the situation as deeply distressing, saying she felt ashamed to be part of a system in which numerous dogs died in their cages. She alleged that staff would begin each morning by checking which animals had survived the night before feeding them.

Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed faces renewed scrutiny over alleged animal mistreatment during his tenure as Detroit health director. Records reportedly show thousands of dogs and cats were euthanized, while critics have called for PETA to respond to the allegations.

‘Pet massacre’ allegations on Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed: Over 4,000 dogs and cats euthanised

Cami Clark, who maintains a low public profile as the wife of Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, sought to bring Jeffrey Epstein on board as an investor in her “luxury porn company” and women’s health startup, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal and emails contained in the Epstein files. The revelations have prompted fresh scrutiny of Clark’s influence over her powerful husband and his company.<h3>Who is Cami Clark?</h3>Cami Clark is an entrepreneur and the low-profile wife of Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei. However, she holds no official position at the artificial intelligence company, according to reports by The Wall Street Journal. She is also an influential shadow adviser, sounding board, and constant companion at major global tech events. She began dating Amodei in 2014, and later they got married in 2022. She also serves as a key strategist, emotional anchor, and manager of external perceptions and elite networking for her husband. Clark previously dated former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and is credited with introducing Schmidt to Amodei, which ultimately catalysed early major funding for Anthropic. In addition, she also previously co-founded a women-focused adult-film venture and a social dieting app. Her outreach to Epstein followed years after the late financier had already been convicted in 2008, registering him as a sex offender.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/toilets-out-of-service-uss-abraham-lincoln-to-return-after-250-days-but-trump-says-not-long-enough-1786844420465">'Toilets out of service': USS Abraham Lincoln to return after 250 days, but Trump says ‘not long enough’</a><h3>What does the post claim?</h3>The email conversation, which International Cyber Digest has posted on social media platform X, claimed that Clark had approached late sex offender Epstein, demoing to invest in what she described as a “free luxury porn company." The post also claimed that these emails were among documents released by the US Department of Justice.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei&#39;s wife and adviser, Cami Clark, pitched Jeffrey Epstein on investing in her &quot;free luxury porn company&quot; in 2012, per DOJ-released emails. Epstein, then already a registered sex offender, declined: &quot;Can&#39;t do sex TV.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qzI6bWjeJ8">pic.twitter.com/qzI6bWjeJ8</a>&mdash; International Cyber Digest (@IntCyberDigest) <a href="https://x.com/IntCyberDigest/status/2088225881839862136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The post claimed that Epstein, already a registered sex offender at the time, turned down the proposal with the brief response: “Can’t do sex TV." The viral post reportedly includes screenshots of the email exchange. In one message, Clark reportedly wrote: "John Brockman introduced us last year at TED. We have the free luxury porn company. Does that ring a bell?" Epstein allegedly responded to her: “Yes,, a loud gong." Clark then said, writing: “Hahaha I was going to say, you would be the first person ever that didn’t remember us 🙂 At any rate, are you in NY? Would be great to catch up. I’m in SF/LA til Wed, then back." The resurfaced exchange quickly went viral on social media, drawing reactions over the nature of the alleged pitch and Clark's correspondence with Epstein. One user commented, “Let that sink in, she wanted to have dinner with a registered sex offender and wanted to pitch a porn company to him." The same user added, “Imagine flirting with a sex offender who was abusing children." Other users focused on the wider implications of the claims and speculated about who else may have interacted with Epstein. One user remarked, "The crazy thing is is that these kind of people have access to all your personal sensitive information. So let that sink in."

Cami Clark is an entrepreneur and the low-profile wife of Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei. She holds no official position at the artificial intelligence company. Clark is also an influential shadow adviser, sounding board, and constant companion at major global tech events.

Cami Clark, who maintains a low public profile as the wife of Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, sought to bring Jeffrey Epstein on board as an investor in her “luxury porn company” and women’s health startup, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal and emails contained in the Epstein files. The revelations have prompted fresh scrutiny of Clark’s influence over her powerful husband and his company. Who is Cami Clark? Cami Clark is an entrepreneur and the low-profile wife of Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei. However, she holds no official position at the artificial intelligence company, according to reports by The Wall Street Journal. She is also an influential shadow adviser, sounding board, and constant companion at major global tech events. She began dating Amodei in 2014, and later they got married in 2022. She also serves as a key strategist, emotional anchor, and manager of external perceptions and elite networking for her husband. Clark previously dated former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and is credited with introducing Schmidt to Amodei, which ultimately catalysed early major funding for Anthropic. In addition, she also previously co-founded a women-focused adult-film venture and a social dieting app. Her outreach to Epstein followed years after the late financier had already been convicted in 2008, registering him as a sex offender. Also read: 'Toilets out of service': USS Abraham Lincoln to return after 250 days, but Trump says ‘not long enough’ What does the post claim? The email conversation, which International Cyber Digest has posted on social media platform X, claimed that Clark had approached late sex offender Epstein, demoing to invest in what she described as a “free luxury porn company." The post also claimed that these emails were among documents released by the US Department of Justice.

Cami Clark is an entrepreneur and the low-profile wife of Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei. She holds no official position at the artificial intelligence company. Clark is also an influential shadow adviser, sounding board, and constant companion at major global tech events.

Who is Cami Clark? Anthropic CEO's wife found in Epstein emails asking him to invest in porn business

Hawaii’s Big Island was lashed with heavy rain and strong winds as Hurricane Lala strengthened to a Category 1 storm on Saturday (Aug 15). Forecasters have warned that days of torrential rain could turn roads and steep slopes dangerous. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour (120 kmph) after intensifying around 9 am local time. Hawaii County was under a hurricane warning, while tropical storm warnings were also issued in Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau.The storm was expected to bring 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 cm) of rainfall across parts of the Big Island, with the possibility of totals reaching as much as 25 inches. “This rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain,” the US National Hurricane Center said.More than 40,000 residents were without power by Saturday afternoon as “damaging winds and heavy rain” swept across the Big Island. Lala was also expected to generate a storm surge of one to three feet. Large waves, strong swells and dangerous rip currents were forecast to make coastal areas hazardous through the weekend.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hurricane Lala is hammering the Big Island with sustained winds up to 75 mph. Some areas are looking at as much as 25 inches of rain. Flash flood warnings remain in effect. South side is seeing 20–30-foot surf that is not remotely surfable. Stay safe out there. <a href="https://t.co/ptoY8Y5m23">pic.twitter.com/ptoY8Y5m23</a>&mdash; Kim &quot;Katie&quot; USA (@KimKatieUSA) <a href="https://x.com/KimKatieUSA/status/2088767924077236397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🇺🇸 Hawaii&#39;s Big Island is getting HAMMERED by Hurricane Lala Hurricane Lala is sitting on Hawaii as a Category 1 with 75 mph sustained winds, and some spots have already picked up more than a foot of rain with up to 25 inches possible at higher elevations. Downed trees and…&mdash; Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://x.com/MarioNawfal/status/2088811780638175579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It&#39;s happening. Hurricane Lala is currently producing SNOW on the summit of Mauna Kea <a href="https://t.co/kwz1RNm0Yl">pic.twitter.com/kwz1RNm0Yl</a>&mdash; Greg Diamond (@gdimeweather) <a href="https://x.com/gdimeweather/status/2088791430982479875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Hawaii declares state of emergency</h2>Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency as Hawaii prepared for the storm’s impact. “It’s a serious storm,” Green warned, adding that measures were being taken to ensure Hawaii and its counties “have sufficient resources to clear debris, secure infrastructure, and take other measures to prepare.”Emergency officials advised people to clear gutters and drains, move valuables off the ground, secure doors and remove dangerous tree limbs.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-a-video-gamer-be-in-charge-of-your-next-flight-faa-hires-2-000-players-as-air-traffic-controllers-1786611162131">Could a video gamer be in charge of your next flight? FAA hires 2,000 players as air traffic controllers</a><h2>Powerful El Nino adds to weather concerns</h2>Hurricane Lala arrives as a powerful El Nino develops in the central equatorial Pacific. NOAA estimates a 69 per cent chance that the event could become stronger than previous El Nino episodes recorded since 1950 when it peaks between October and December. El Nino generally promotes hurricane activity in the Pacific. Warmer oceans and a warmer atmosphere can also provide more moisture and energy for extreme rainfall, while climate change can amplify some of these impacts.&nbsp;

Hurricane Lala strengthened to Category 1 as it battered Hawaii’s Big Island with 75 mph winds and heavy rain, leaving over 40,000 without power amid warnings of floods and mudslides.

Hawaii’s Big Island was lashed with heavy rain and strong winds as Hurricane Lala strengthened to a Category 1 storm on Saturday (Aug 15). Forecasters have warned that days of torrential rain could turn roads and steep slopes dangerous. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour (120 kmph) after intensifying around 9 am local time. Hawaii County was under a hurricane warning, while tropical storm warnings were also issued in Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau. The storm was expected to bring 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 cm) of rainfall across parts of the Big Island, with the possibility of totals reaching as much as 25 inches. “This rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain,” the US National Hurricane Center said. More than 40,000 residents were without power by Saturday afternoon as “damaging winds and heavy rain” swept across the Big Island. Lala was also expected to generate a storm surge of one to three feet. Large waves, strong swells and dangerous rip currents were forecast to make coastal areas hazardous through the weekend.

Hurricane Lala strengthened to Category 1 as it battered Hawaii’s Big Island with 75 mph winds and heavy rain, leaving over 40,000 without power amid warnings of floods and mudslides.

Hurricane Lala batters Hawaii: Over 40,000 left without power as storm strengthens to Category 1, one dead

Commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper on Saturday (Aug 15) met sailors and Marines aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) before he wrapped up his 10-day trip to West Asia. This comes soon after acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao announced that the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is set to return to the United States after an extended deployment. The decision by the administration comes amid reports claiming low morale and mental health concerns among sailors aboard the carrier. Even as Cooper praised the sailors, US President Donald Trump does not see this deployment as “long enough.”&nbsp;Addressing the crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln, Cooper thanked them for their "tremendous dedication and courage" and met with junior service members before presenting awards to deserving personnel. "The Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is a strong team of high-achieving Americans standing tall with immense, justified pride in everything they accomplished. History will record this deployment as one of the most operationally intense and consequential of the modern era," Admiral Cooper said. This was teh second time he was meeting the sailors. &nbsp;He had earlier visited the aircraft carrier in February alongside US Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Friday, Cao, in a statement said the carrier had "crushed their deployment" and would return home soon as part of a planned rotation, while stressing that the safety and security of sailors and Marines remain the Navy's priority. "The USS Abraham Lincoln crushed their deployment and will return home soon as part of a planned rotation. Details will come, but let me be clear: the safety and security of our Sailors and Marines always comes first. Mission accomplishment. Troop Welfare. This is how we lead," Cao said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/clogged-toilets-narrow-pipes-uss-gerald-r-ford-faces-dirty-sewage-problem-amid-possible-us-strike-on-iran-1771836555256/1771836555257">Clogged toilets, narrow pipes: USS Gerald R Ford faces dirty 'sewage' problem</a><h2>What Trump thinks and what CNN reported?</h2>However, US President Donald Trump has dismissed concerns over the prolonged deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln, saying its more than eight-month mission at sea was “not nearly long enough”. When he was asked if the deployment had gone on too long, Trump said, “No, no, no. Not nearly long enough.” “That ship is moving right now, or very shortly, and it’s being replaced with another very similar ship,” Trump said, according to Reuters and the Associated Press.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/30-hour-blaze-600-sailors-without-beds-fire-engulfs-uss-gerald-r-ford-where-is-it-iran-war-1773717759610">30-hour blaze, 600 sailors without beds: Massive fire engulfs USS Gerald R Ford</a> A CNN reports claimed that sailors even attempted to jump off the carrier. It cited sailors and their families saying that toilets and water fountains had frequently been out of service, and that hot water was often unavailable. “Every day we wake up and listen to our Captain speak, we are desperately hoping and anxious for updates on our return,” the sailor told CNN. Another sailor said some items from the ship’s store had become subject to limits and that “hardly any hygiene products are readily available.” &nbsp;

USS Abraham Lincoln is set to return to the US after more than 250 days at sea amid concerns over sailors’ morale and onboard conditions. CENTCOM chief Adm Brad Cooper praised the crew, while Donald Trump dismissed concerns over the carrier’s prolonged deployment.

Commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper on Saturday (Aug 15) met sailors and Marines aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) before he wrapped up his 10-day trip to West Asia. This comes soon after acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao announced that the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is set to return to the United States after an extended deployment. The decision by the administration comes amid reports claiming low morale and mental health concerns among sailors aboard the carrier. Even as Cooper praised the sailors, US President Donald Trump does not see this deployment as “long enough.” Addressing the crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln, Cooper thanked them for their "tremendous dedication and courage" and met with junior service members before presenting awards to deserving personnel. "The Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is a strong team of high-achieving Americans standing tall with immense, justified pride in everything they accomplished. History will record this deployment as one of the most operationally intense and consequential of the modern era," Admiral Cooper said. This was teh second time he was meeting the sailors. He had earlier visited the aircraft carrier in February alongside US Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. On Friday, Cao, in a statement said the carrier had "crushed their deployment" and would return home soon as part of a planned rotation, while stressing that the safety and security of sailors and Marines remain the Navy's priority. "The USS Abraham Lincoln crushed their deployment and will return home soon as part of a planned rotation. Details will come, but let me be clear: the safety and security of our Sailors and Marines always comes first. Mission accomplishment. Troop Welfare. This is how we lead," Cao said. Also Read: Clogged toilets, narrow pipes: USS Gerald R Ford faces dirty 'sewage' problem What Trump thinks and what CNN reported? However, US President Donald Trump has dismissed concerns over the prolonged deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln, saying its more than eight-month mission at sea was “not nearly long enough”. When he was asked if the deployment had gone on too long, Trump said, “No, no, no. Not nearly long enough.” “That ship is moving right now, or very shortly, and it’s being replaced with another very similar ship,” Trump said, according to Reuters and the Associated Press. Also Read: 30-hour blaze, 600 sailors without beds: Massive fire engulfs USS Gerald R Ford A CNN reports claimed that sailors even attempted to jump off the carrier. It cited sailors and their families saying that toilets and water fountains had frequently been out of service, and that hot water was often unavailable. “Every day we wake up and listen to our Captain speak, we are desperately hoping and anxious for updates on our return,” the sailor told CNN. Another sailor said some items from the ship’s store had become subject to limits and that “hardly any hygiene products are readily available.”

USS Abraham Lincoln is set to return to the US after more than 250 days at sea amid concerns over sailors’ morale and onboard conditions. CENTCOM chief Adm Brad Cooper praised the crew, while Donald Trump dismissed concerns over the carrier’s prolonged deployment.

'Toilets out of service': USS Abraham Lincoln to return after 250 days, but Trump says 'not long enough'

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has revealed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong reaction after the Pahalgam terror attack in a latest documentary. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to contain the Iran-US conflict continue amid escalating rhetoric and growing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has clarified that contact through Qatar and Pakistan does not mean formal negotiations have resumed. IIn India, a day after Chief Justice of India Surya Kant criticised the Bar Council of India over its intervention in the NALSAR University of Law enrolment controversy, BCI chairman Manan Kumar Mishra apologised to law students. Meanwhile, protests in Jharkhand have intensified, with students demanding Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s resignation over alleged job and examination irregularities. The protesters have also urged the Congress to withdraw support from the JMM-led government, accusing the ruling alliance of playing politics over the issue.In Tamil Nadu, BJP state president Nainar Nagendran has triggered a political controversy after allegedly making a personal remark targeting Chief Minister Vijay’s mother. Speaking at the BJP’s state headquarters in Chennai, Nagendran appeared to respond to recent political remarks by the actor-turned-politician.As India celebrated its 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Modi delivered his shortest Independence Day speech, making announcements aimed at students and young people while warning against what he described as “intellectual Naxals.” Meanwhile, a political row erupted over Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s reaction during the rendition of Vande Mataram.Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Bangladesh has said a favourable atmosphere must first be created before Prime Minister Tarique Rahman can undertake a bilateral visit to India, and has reiterated its request for the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dhaka-says-propitious-environment-needed-for-bangladesh-pm-rahman-s-india-visit-restates-hasina-extradition-demand-1786866065947">Read more.</a>

At least 12 people were killed and 10 others injured after a Polish-registered bus overturned on a highway in eastern Hungary early Sunday, authorities said. The crash took place on the M3 motorway near Mezokeresztes, as the bus was travelling towards Nyiregyhaza. Police said the vehicle veered off a straight section of the road, entered a ditch and overturned.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-12-killed-10-injured-after-polish-tourist-bus-overturns-in-hungary-1786864822333">Read more.</a>

A Spanish fighter jet on NATO duties shot down a drone after it breached Romanian airspace near the country’s border with Ukraine and Moldova, Romania’s defence ministry said on Sunday (Aug 16). The drone entered from Moldova and was intercepted by an F-18 deployed on NATO duties.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-spanish-f-18-shoots-down-drone-after-it-breaches-romanian-airspace-near-ukraine-1786861462811">Read more.</a>

Iran's judiciary announced the execution on Sunday of a man who was convicted of running over several police officers with his car during anti-government protests in January."Shahram Sadeghi, sentenced to death for having carried out an operational action in support of the Zionist regime and the United States, was executed this morning," the judiciary's Mizan Online website said.It added that the man had run over several police officers with his car on January 8 in Karaj, west of Tehran, wounding seven of them.

Iran executes man over involvement in winter protests

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck off the coast of South Pacific nation Vanuatu on Sunday, the US Geological Survey said.The tremor's epicentre was about 56 kilometres (35 miles) northeast of the small coastal village of Port Olry, at a depth of 188 kilometres, according to the USGS.There were no early reports of damage and Vanuatu's natural hazards department did not immediately issue a tsunami warning.Earthquakes are common in Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago that straddles the tectonic Ring of Fire, an arc of seismic activity stretching through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.Dozens of people were killed in Indonesia after a magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck early on Saturday, followed by hundreds of aftershocks.

Magnitude 6.1 earthquake strikes off Vanuatu

A couple was found dead at their rented house in Bengaluru’s Laggere area, with a late-night WhatsApp voice message sent by the husband to his mother emerging as a key lead in the police investigation. Sumant Jain, 32, a civil engineer, and his wife Padmavathi, 29, a software engineer, were found dead at their home in Rajeshwarinagar, where they had been staying for around four months. Police said Sumant was found hanging from a ceiling fan in the hall, while Padmavathi was found dead inside the house.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-couple-found-dead-what-husband-s-chilling-whatsapp-voice-note-to-mother-reveals-1786853063842">Read more.</a>

Bengaluru couple found dead: What husband’s chilling WhatsApp voice note to mother reveals

Hawaii’s Big Island was lashed with heavy rain and strong winds as Hurricane Lala strengthened to a Category 1 storm on Saturday (Aug 15). Forecasters have warned that days of torrential rain could turn roads and steep slopes dangerous. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour (120 kmph) after intensifying around 9 am local time. Hawaii County was under a hurricane warning, while tropical storm warnings were also issued in Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-lala-batters-hawaii-over-40-000-left-without-power-as-storm-strengthens-to-category-1-1786850168329">Read more.</a>

Hurricane Lala batters Hawaii: Over 40,000 left without power as storm strengthens to Category 1 | WATCH

Jharkhand students’ protest entered its 23rd day on Saturday (August 15), with protesters demanding CM Hemant Soren’s resignation and accusing the ruling JMM-Congress coalition of playing politics with their careers. They announced plans to gherao Soren’s residence on August 20 and burn effigies of Soren and Rahul Gandhi across all 24 districts on August 16. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-students-demand-cm-hemant-soren-s-resignation-urges-congress-to-withdraw-support-from-jmm-govt-1786843089625">READ MORE</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260816/image-1786843390583.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Jharkhand students demand CM Hemant Soren's resignation, urges Congress to 'withdraw support' from JMM govt"></figure>

Jharkhand students demand CM Soren's resignation, reveals big plans for Aug 20

Bar Council of India (BCI) chairman Manan Kumar Mishra on Saturday apologised to the law students after Chief Justice of India Surya Kant came down hard on him for intervening in the NALSAR University of Law enrolment controversy<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nalsar-row-bci-chairman-mishra-apologises-after-backlash-over-advocate-registration-order-1786739010955">READ MORE</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260815/image-1786816501038.jpg?rect=(0,0,803,602)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="NALSAR row: BCI chairman Mishra apologises after backlash over advocate registration order"></figure>

NALSAR row: BCI chairman Mishra apologises

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 13th consecutive Independence Day speech, delivered on India's 80th Independence Day from the ramparts of the Red Fort, primarily focused on a comprehensive seven-point reform framework called "Saptadhara" to propel India toward becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047. For the first time in 80 years of celebrations, the national song Vande Mataram resonated from the Red Fort preceding the national anthem. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 80th Independence Day speech introduced the "Saptadhara" framework, targeting a developed India by 2047 with a focus on training 1 crore youth in AI and providing free online coaching for competitive exams to empower students from lower and middle-income families. Furthermore, the Prime Minister warned against the rise of "Dimagi Naxals" (intellectual Naxals), arguing that while armed Naxalism has declined, ideological subversion poses a new threat to national security.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-80th-independence-day-top-10-quotes-of-pm-modi-from-red-fort-1786765401617">READ MORE</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HPvqrKubEAAripX?format=jpg&amp;name=large" alt="Image"></figure>

PM Modi's Independence Day speech RECAP

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, diplomacy, energy markets, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has revealed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong reaction after the Pahalgam terror attack in a latest documentary. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to contain the Iran-US conflict continue amid escalating rhetoric and growing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has clarified that contact through Qatar and Pakistan does not mean formal negotiations have resumed. I In India, a day after Chief Justice of India Surya Kant criticised the Bar Council of India over its intervention in the NALSAR University of Law enrolment controversy, BCI chairman Manan Kumar Mishra apologised to law students. Meanwhile, protests in Jharkhand have intensified, with students demanding Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s resignation over alleged job and examination irregularities. The protesters have also urged the Congress to withdraw support from the JMM-led government, accusing the ruling alliance of playing politics over the issue. In Tamil Nadu, BJP state president Nainar Nagendran has triggered a political controversy after allegedly making a personal remark targeting Chief Minister Vijay’s mother. Speaking at the BJP’s state headquarters in Chennai, Nagendran appeared to respond to recent political remarks by the actor-turned-politician. As India celebrated its 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Modi delivered his shortest Independence Day speech, making announcements aimed at students and young people while warning against what he described as “intellectual Naxals.” Meanwhile, a political row erupted over Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s reaction during the rendition of Vande Mataram. Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, diplomacy, energy markets, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

Latest India & World News Today LIVE updates: Iran executes man over involvement in protests, uncertainty over Bangladesh PM's India visit and more

Iran on Saturday demanded that Qatar release three Iranian pilots whom Tehran claims were captured after their aircraft crashed during the early stages of the Middle East war. General Mohammad Bagherzadeh of Iran's armed forces said Qatari forces captured the pilots alive after their Su-24 fighter jets went down during the conflict.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Three Iranian pilots were captured alive by Qatari forces after their Su-24 fighter jets crashed during the war," Bagherzadeh said, according to Fars news agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a letter to the International Committee of the Red Cross, he identified the pilots as Javad Salehi, Abdolmajid Dashtian and Omran Behraveshian. He claimed that Qatari forces had held them for months.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-hormuz-passage-deal-reached-with-oman-reopening-tied-to-us-lifting-blockade-1786804702036">Iran says Hormuz passage deal reached with Oman, reopening tied to US lifting blockade</a><h2>Qatar denies detention claim</h2>Bagherzadeh called for their release, saying the pilots had not been allowed to meet or contact their families. Qatar rejected the allegation, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari saying on X:&nbsp;&nbsp;"We categorically deny the claims circulating regarding the detention of Iranian pilots &amp; are surprised by these misleading statements."&nbsp;Ansari said Qatari rescuers "carried out their duties to the fullest" while searching for the pilots. He said Qatar had "communicated with the Iranian side to coordinate the handover of the remains of one of the pilots who was found".&nbsp;"Qatar also issued an invitation for an Iranian team to visit Qatar to be briefed on the details of the search &amp; rescue operations in April, but the Iranian side has yet to respond to the invitation," he added.&nbsp;Last month, Iran's military said it had recovered the body of pilot Majid Kazemi, who was killed during an attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in early March. The base includes forward components of US Central Command (CENTCOM), along with its air forces and special operations forces.&nbsp;Qatar's Defence Ministry said in early March that it had downed two Iranian Sukhoi Su-24 bombers. However, it was unclear whether those aircraft were the same ones mentioned in Iran's latest claim.&nbsp;The fighting between the United States and Iran has remained in a lull since late July, although sporadic attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz have continued.

Iran has urged Qatar to release three pilots it claims were captured after their jets crashed during the war, while Doha has categorically denied detaining them.

Iran on Saturday demanded that Qatar release three Iranian pilots whom Tehran claims were captured after their aircraft crashed during the early stages of the Middle East war. General Mohammad Bagherzadeh of Iran's armed forces said Qatari forces captured the pilots alive after their Su-24 fighter jets went down during the conflict. "Three Iranian pilots were captured alive by Qatari forces after their Su-24 fighter jets crashed during the war," Bagherzadeh said, according to Fars news agency. In a letter to the International Committee of the Red Cross, he identified the pilots as Javad Salehi, Abdolmajid Dashtian and Omran Behraveshian. He claimed that Qatari forces had held them for months. Also Read: Iran says Hormuz passage deal reached with Oman, reopening tied to US lifting blockade Qatar denies detention claim Bagherzadeh called for their release, saying the pilots had not been allowed to meet or contact their families. Qatar rejected the allegation, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari saying on X: "We categorically deny the claims circulating regarding the detention of Iranian pilots & are surprised by these misleading statements." Ansari said Qatari rescuers "carried out their duties to the fullest" while searching for the pilots. He said Qatar had "communicated with the Iranian side to coordinate the handover of the remains of one of the pilots who was found". "Qatar also issued an invitation for an Iranian team to visit Qatar to be briefed on the details of the search & rescue operations in April, but the Iranian side has yet to respond to the invitation," he added. Last month, Iran's military said it had recovered the body of pilot Majid Kazemi, who was killed during an attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in early March. The base includes forward components of US Central Command (CENTCOM), along with its air forces and special operations forces. Qatar's Defence Ministry said in early March that it had downed two Iranian Sukhoi Su-24 bombers. However, it was unclear whether those aircraft were the same ones mentioned in Iran's latest claim. The fighting between the United States and Iran has remained in a lull since late July, although sporadic attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz have continued.

Iran has urged Qatar to release three pilots it claims were captured after their jets crashed during the war, while Doha has categorically denied detaining them.

Iran urges Qatar to release pilots shot down in Middle East war; Doha denies detention

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continued to keep the region on edge, diplomatic tensions appeared to rise after Moscow demanded explanations from the United States and Turkey over reports of a possible transfer of a substantial stockpile of US weapons held in Turkey to Kyiv. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia's Foreign Ministry, said Moscow had sought clarification from both Washington and Ankara regarding reports of possible plans to transfer to Kyiv a ‘substantial arsenal’ of US weapons and ammunition stored in Turkey, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;Zakharova warned that such a transfer could damage Russia's relations with both countries. Such a transfer would cause "serious harm ... to our bilateral relations with Washington and Ankara," the spokeswoman said.<h2>Ukraine steps up long-range strikes on Russia</h2>At the same time, the Russia-Ukraine war intensified as Kyiv reportedly increased its long-range aerial attacks against Russian military-industrial facilities and energy infrastructure. According to the Associated Press, a Russian official said Ukrainian forces carried out a large-scale strike against industrial infrastructure in Russia's southwestern Samara region. Ivan Noskov, head of Samara city, said Russian air-defense units repelled a ‘massive’ missile barrage. The attack reportedly caused localized damage to industrial facilities and left several people injured.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on social media that the attack hit the Samara Progress Center, a facility operated under Russia's state space agency Roscosmos. "In Russia’s Samara region, one of the key enterprises within Roscosmos, the Progress Center, which was involved, among other things, in electronics production, was hit. Flamingo missiles were used. A good achievement," he posted on X.&nbsp;Zelenskyy also said Russia's Savasleyka air base, located roughly 700 kilometers from the front line, had been targeted."The distance from our border is about 900 kilometers. Our long-range sanctions also reached the Savasleyka airbase, where the carriers of Russian missiles that strike our cities and villages are based – about 700 kilometers from Ukraine. We also have confirmation of the damage we were aiming to inflict at an oil facility in Ust-Luga, more than 800 kilometers from our border," he added. “Peace is needed, and this must be evident in Russia, through concrete damage to specific facilities,” Zelenskyy also noted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-america-ready-for-president-aoc-the-question-democrats-can-no-longer-ignore-1786809155419">Is America ready for President AOC? The question Democrats can no longer ignore</a><h2>Ukraine's long-range strikes increase</h2>The Associated Press, citing data from independent conflict monitor ACLED, reported that Ukraine's long-range attacks, defined as strikes beyond its usual 200-kilometer range, have increased significantly. Kyiv carried out three times as many such strikes in July as it did in January.&nbsp;Russia's Ministry of Defense said on Saturday that its forces intercepted 598 Ukrainian drones across 19 Russian regions, as well as over the Black and Azov seas and Crimea. In the Moscow region, Governor Andrey Vorobyov said two people, including a nine-year-old child, were injured after a Ukrainian drone struck a private house in Shatura.<h2>Casualties and port strikes in Ukraine</h2>In southeastern Ukraine, a Russian strike on an apartment building killed an infant and injured 11 people, according to Ukrainian officials. Ukraine's Air Force said it shot down 124 of the 152 drones launched by Russia on Saturday. Meanwhile, Russia's Ministry of Defense said its forces targeted warehouses and infrastructure at Ukrainian ports.&nbsp;The latest developments underscore the continued escalation of long-range attacks, as both sides target military, industrial and energy infrastructure while diplomatic tensions surrounding potential weapons transfers add another layer of uncertainty to the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine war tensions rise as Moscow questions US and Turkey over weapons transfers while Ukraine intensifies long-range strikes across Russia

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continued to keep the region on edge, diplomatic tensions appeared to rise after Moscow demanded explanations from the United States and Turkey over reports of a possible transfer of a substantial stockpile of US weapons held in Turkey to Kyiv. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia's Foreign Ministry, said Moscow had sought clarification from both Washington and Ankara regarding reports of possible plans to transfer to Kyiv a ‘substantial arsenal’ of US weapons and ammunition stored in Turkey, news agency Reuters reported. Zakharova warned that such a transfer could damage Russia's relations with both countries. Such a transfer would cause "serious harm ... to our bilateral relations with Washington and Ankara," the spokeswoman said. Ukraine steps up long-range strikes on Russia At the same time, the Russia-Ukraine war intensified as Kyiv reportedly increased its long-range aerial attacks against Russian military-industrial facilities and energy infrastructure. According to the Associated Press, a Russian official said Ukrainian forces carried out a large-scale strike against industrial infrastructure in Russia's southwestern Samara region. Ivan Noskov, head of Samara city, said Russian air-defense units repelled a ‘massive’ missile barrage. The attack reportedly caused localized damage to industrial facilities and left several people injured. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on social media that the attack hit the Samara Progress Center, a facility operated under Russia's state space agency Roscosmos. "In Russia’s Samara region, one of the key enterprises within Roscosmos, the Progress Center, which was involved, among other things, in electronics production, was hit. Flamingo missiles were used. A good achievement," he posted on X. Zelenskyy also said Russia's Savasleyka air base, located roughly 700 kilometers from the front line, had been targeted. "The distance from our border is about 900 kilometers. Our long-range sanctions also reached the Savasleyka airbase, where the carriers of Russian missiles that strike our cities and villages are based – about 700 kilometers from Ukraine. We also have confirmation of the damage we were aiming to inflict at an oil facility in Ust-Luga, more than 800 kilometers from our border," he added. “Peace is needed, and this must be evident in Russia, through concrete damage to specific facilities,” Zelenskyy also noted. Also Read: Is America ready for President AOC? The question Democrats can no longer ignore Ukraine's long-range strikes increase The Associated Press, citing data from independent conflict monitor ACLED, reported that Ukraine's long-range attacks, defined as strikes beyond its usual 200-kilometer range, have increased significantly. Kyiv carried out three times as many such strikes in July as it did in January. Russia's Ministry of Defense said on Saturday that its forces intercepted 598 Ukrainian drones across 19 Russian regions, as well as over the Black and Azov seas and Crimea. In the Moscow region, Governor Andrey Vorobyov said two people, including a nine-year-old child, were injured after a Ukrainian drone struck a private house in Shatura. Casualties and port strikes in Ukraine In southeastern Ukraine, a Russian strike on an apartment building killed an infant and injured 11 people, according to Ukrainian officials. Ukraine's Air Force said it shot down 124 of the 152 drones launched by Russia on Saturday. Meanwhile, Russia's Ministry of Defense said its forces targeted warehouses and infrastructure at Ukrainian ports. The latest developments underscore the continued escalation of long-range attacks, as both sides target military, industrial and energy infrastructure while diplomatic tensions surrounding potential weapons transfers add another layer of uncertainty to the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine tensions rise as Moscow seeks US-Turkey answers over weapons transfers while Ukraine intensifies long-range strikes on Russian targets

Russia seeks US, Turkey answers over reported Ukraine weapons transfer as Kyiv intensifies strikes

For years, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has been treated as a political phenomenon rather than a potential president. She was the young progressive who shocked the Democratic establishment in 2018, the congresswoman who could dominate a news cycle with a social-media post, and one of the most recognisable faces of the American left.Now, that assumption may be changing.&nbsp;At 36, Ocasio-Cortez is openly keeping her 2028 options alive. In an August 9 interview with ABC News, she declined to rule out either a presidential run or a challenge to Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. Her comments came as polling and prediction markets increasingly placed her among the leading potential Democratic contenders. The question, therefore, is no longer simply whether AOC wants to be president. It is whether America is ready for her. And that is a much more complicated question.<h2>AOC is no longer the same politician</h2>The AOC who entered Congress in 2019 was easy for her critics to caricature. She was young, unapologetically progressive and closely associated with the Democratic Socialists of America. Her politics were built around Medicare for All, climate action, economic inequality, workers' rights and a fundamental challenge to the political establishment.But six years in Washington have changed her.&nbsp;Ocasio-Cortez remains firmly on the progressive side of the Democratic Party, but she has also demonstrated a greater understanding of political power and coalition-building. Her ability to communicate directly with voters, particularly younger Americans, has become one of her biggest political assets. She is no longer simply the insurgent who defeated a veteran Democrat. She is part of the Democratic Party's national conversation about what comes next.&nbsp;That distinction matters. The Democratic Party is searching for a new identity after the Biden and Harris years, while progressives are increasingly testing whether their ideas can translate into electoral victories. AOC's growing national profile comes at precisely the moment when Democrats are debating whether the answer lies in moderation or a more aggressive progressive agenda.<h2>Her biggest strength may also be her biggest weakness</h2>There is an obvious reason AOC can excite Democrats. She knows how to command attention. In an era when political communication is increasingly conducted through Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X rather than traditional campaign rallies, Ocasio-Cortez possesses something many conventional politicians spend millions trying to manufacture: an authentic digital following. She can speak to voters without sounding like a press release.&nbsp;That is particularly valuable with younger Americans, many of whom have little emotional connection to the political establishment. But presidential elections are not won on social media. They are won in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and other battlegrounds where candidates must build broad coalitions that extend far beyond their ideological base.&nbsp;And this is where the AOC question becomes difficult. Can someone identified so strongly with the progressive wing of the Democratic Party appeal to moderate voters, suburban voters, working-class voters and older Americans who may not share her politics? That is the test she has yet to pass.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-hormuz-passage-deal-reached-with-oman-reopening-tied-to-us-lifting-blockade-1786804702036">Iran says Hormuz passage deal reached with Oman, reopening tied to US lifting blockade</a><h2>America has changed, but not necessarily enough</h2>There is a temptation to look at AOC's rise and conclude that America has simply moved to the left. That would be too simplistic. America is not one electorate. It is a collection of competing political identities, economic anxieties, cultural fears and regional realities. The country is simultaneously becoming more comfortable with women in positions of power and more polarised over issues such as immigration, abortion, healthcare, race and the role of government.&nbsp;AOC represents one answer to those tensions. Her supporters see a politician prepared to challenge entrenched interests and speak openly about inequality. Her critics see a symbol of an ideological left that has moved too far from the political centre. Both perceptions matter. A presidential candidate does not get to choose which version of themselves voters see.<h2>The gender question cannot be ignored</h2>There is another uncomfortable reality. America has elected a Black president. It has elected women as vice-president. But it has never elected a woman president. Hillary Clinton came close in 2016. Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee in 2024 but failed to defeat Donald Trump. AOC would therefore enter a presidential race carrying two identities that have historically generated intense political reactions: she would be a woman and a progressive.&nbsp;Her recent decision to publicly discuss freezing her eggs has already demonstrated how differently female politicians can be scrutinised. Ocasio-Cortez has framed the issue around women's autonomy and the difficulty of balancing career and personal choices, while the disclosure has generated both support and political criticism. That episode may seem unrelated to presidential politics. It isn't. It is a reminder that if AOC eventually runs, almost every aspect of her life will become political ammunition. The question is whether she can withstand that scrutiny, and whether voters will ultimately judge her more by her policies than by the culture-war narratives built around her.<h2>The Democratic primary may be harder than the general election</h2>Ironically, AOC's first major challenge may not be Republicans. It may be Democrats. The party is likely to have a crowded 2028 field. Gavin Newsom, Pete Buttigieg, Mark Kelly and other nationally recognised Democrats could all compete for the nomination.&nbsp;AOC would have to convince Democratic voters that she is not merely the most exciting progressive candidate, but the candidate capable of actually winning the White House. That means proving she can broaden her coalition. It also means answering difficult questions about foreign policy, national security, the economy, immigration and the country's role in the world, issues on which presidential candidates face a level of scrutiny that congressional politicians rarely experience. The early signals are encouraging for her.&nbsp;But early polls are not elections. Prediction markets can capture political momentum, but they do not put voters in polling booths. And a presidential campaign is an entirely different political ecosystem.<h2>Yet dismissing AOC could be an even bigger mistake</h2>This is where Democrats should be careful. It would be easy for party insiders to look at AOC and conclude that she is simply too progressive to win nationally. That argument may be increasingly outdated. The political environment that produced AOC in 2018 is not the same environment that exists today. Younger voters are more politically engaged, traditional media has less control over political narratives, and distrust of established institutions remains high.&nbsp;The Democratic Party cannot simply tell a new generation of voters that their preferred candidates are too radical.It has to understand why those voters are attracted to them in the first place. AOC's appeal is not solely ideological. It is also generational. She represents a generation that entered adulthood amid student debt, soaring housing costs, economic insecurity, climate anxiety and deep distrust of institutions. Whether one agrees with her solutions or not, she speaks directly to those frustrations. That is politically powerful.<h2>So, is America ready?</h2>Not yet, but perhaps that is the wrong question. America rarely announces that it is ready for a political transformation.It simply arrives at one. Barack Obama was once dismissed as too inexperienced. Donald Trump was once dismissed as too unconventional to become president. Hillary Clinton was once considered almost inevitable. Political history is full of candidates who appeared impossible until they weren't.&nbsp;AOC may or may not become president. She may decide to run for the Senate instead. She may ultimately conclude that 2028 is not her moment. She may enter the race and lose the Democratic nomination. But something important has already happened. The idea of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as president is no longer politically absurd.&nbsp;It is now a serious question. And perhaps the bigger question for America is not whether it is ready for AOC. It is whether the Democratic Party is ready to find out. Because if Ocasio-Cortez does run in 2028, she will not simply be asking Americans to vote for another Democrat. She will be asking them to decide what kind of Democrat, and what kind of America, they want next. That is a much bigger election than AOC alone.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is emerging as a potential 2028 presidential contender. Is America ready for AOC and her progressive political agenda?

For years, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has been treated as a political phenomenon rather than a potential president. She was the young progressive who shocked the Democratic establishment in 2018, the congresswoman who could dominate a news cycle with a social-media post, and one of the most recognisable faces of the American left. Now, that assumption may be changing. At 36, Ocasio-Cortez is openly keeping her 2028 options alive. In an August 9 interview with ABC News, she declined to rule out either a presidential run or a challenge to Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. Her comments came as polling and prediction markets increasingly placed her among the leading potential Democratic contenders. The question, therefore, is no longer simply whether AOC wants to be president. It is whether America is ready for her. And that is a much more complicated question. AOC is no longer the same politician The AOC who entered Congress in 2019 was easy for her critics to caricature. She was young, unapologetically progressive and closely associated with the Democratic Socialists of America. Her politics were built around Medicare for All, climate action, economic inequality, workers' rights and a fundamental challenge to the political establishment. But six years in Washington have changed her. Ocasio-Cortez remains firmly on the progressive side of the Democratic Party, but she has also demonstrated a greater understanding of political power and coalition-building. Her ability to communicate directly with voters, particularly younger Americans, has become one of her biggest political assets. She is no longer simply the insurgent who defeated a veteran Democrat. She is part of the Democratic Party's national conversation about what comes next. That distinction matters. The Democratic Party is searching for a new identity after the Biden and Harris years, while progressives are increasingly testing whether their ideas can translate into electoral victories. AOC's growing national profile comes at precisely the moment when Democrats are debating whether the answer lies in moderation or a more aggressive progressive agenda. Her biggest strength may also be her biggest weakness There is an obvious reason AOC can excite Democrats. She knows how to command attention. In an era when political communication is increasingly conducted through Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X rather than traditional campaign rallies, Ocasio-Cortez possesses something many conventional politicians spend millions trying to manufacture: an authentic digital following. She can speak to voters without sounding like a press release. That is particularly valuable with younger Americans, many of whom have little emotional connection to the political establishment. But presidential elections are not won on social media. They are won in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and other battlegrounds where candidates must build broad coalitions that extend far beyond their ideological base. And this is where the AOC question becomes difficult. Can someone identified so strongly with the progressive wing of the Democratic Party appeal to moderate voters, suburban voters, working-class voters and older Americans who may not share her politics? That is the test she has yet to pass. Also Read: Iran says Hormuz passage deal reached with Oman, reopening tied to US lifting blockade America has changed, but not necessarily enough There is a temptation to look at AOC's rise and conclude that America has simply moved to the left. That would be too simplistic. America is not one electorate. It is a collection of competing political identities, economic anxieties, cultural fears and regional realities. The country is simultaneously becoming more comfortable with women in positions of power and more polarised over issues such as immigration, abortion, healthcare, race and the role of government. AOC represents one answer to those tensions. Her supporters see a politician prepared to challenge entrenched interests and speak openly about inequality. Her critics see a symbol of an ideological left that has moved too far from the political centre. Both perceptions matter. A presidential candidate does not get to choose which version of themselves voters see. The gender question cannot be ignored There is another uncomfortable reality. America has elected a Black president. It has elected women as vice-president. But it has never elected a woman president. Hillary Clinton came close in 2016. Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee in 2024 but failed to defeat Donald Trump. AOC would therefore enter a presidential race carrying two identities that have historically generated intense political reactions: she would be a woman and a progressive. Her recent decision to publicly discuss freezing her eggs has already demonstrated how differently female politicians can be scrutinised. Ocasio-Cortez has framed the issue around women's autonomy and the difficulty of balancing career and personal choices, while the disclosure has generated both support and political criticism. That episode may seem unrelated to presidential politics. It isn't. It is a reminder that if AOC eventually runs, almost every aspect of her life will become political ammunition. The question is whether she can withstand that scrutiny, and whether voters will ultimately judge her more by her policies than by the culture-war narratives built around her. The Democratic primary may be harder than the general election Ironically, AOC's first major challenge may not be Republicans. It may be Democrats. The party is likely to have a crowded 2028 field. Gavin Newsom, Pete Buttigieg, Mark Kelly and other nationally recognised Democrats could all compete for the nomination. AOC would have to convince Democratic voters that she is not merely the most exciting progressive candidate, but the candidate capable of actually winning the White House. That means proving she can broaden her coalition. It also means answering difficult questions about foreign policy, national security, the economy, immigration and the country's role in the world, issues on which presidential candidates face a level of scrutiny that congressional politicians rarely experience. The early signals are encouraging for her. But early polls are not elections. Prediction markets can capture political momentum, but they do not put voters in polling booths. And a presidential campaign is an entirely different political ecosystem. Yet dismissing AOC could be an even bigger mistake This is where Democrats should be careful. It would be easy for party insiders to look at AOC and conclude that she is simply too progressive to win nationally. That argument may be increasingly outdated. The political environment that produced AOC in 2018 is not the same environment that exists today. Younger voters are more politically engaged, traditional media has less control over political narratives, and distrust of established institutions remains high. The Democratic Party cannot simply tell a new generation of voters that their preferred candidates are too radical. It has to understand why those voters are attracted to them in the first place. AOC's appeal is not solely ideological. It is also generational. She represents a generation that entered adulthood amid student debt, soaring housing costs, economic insecurity, climate anxiety and deep distrust of institutions. Whether one agrees with her solutions or not, she speaks directly to those frustrations. That is politically powerful. So, is America ready? Not yet, but perhaps that is the wrong question. America rarely announces that it is ready for a political transformation. It simply arrives at one. Barack Obama was once dismissed as too inexperienced. Donald Trump was once dismissed as too unconventional to become president. Hillary Clinton was once considered almost inevitable. Political history is full of candidates who appeared impossible until they weren't. AOC may or may not become president. She may decide to run for the Senate instead. She may ultimately conclude that 2028 is not her moment. She may enter the race and lose the Democratic nomination. But something important has already happened. The idea of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as president is no longer politically absurd. It is now a serious question. And perhaps the bigger question for America is not whether it is ready for AOC. It is whether the Democratic Party is ready to find out. Because if Ocasio-Cortez does run in 2028, she will not simply be asking Americans to vote for another Democrat. She will be asking them to decide what kind of Democrat, and what kind of America, they want next. That is a much bigger election than AOC alone. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

AOC's potential 2028 White House bid is gaining momentum, but can her progressive politics, youth and polarising image win over America's voters?

Is America ready for President AOC? The question Democrats can no longer ignore

Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate government will hold its first public reception in India to mark "Victory Day" on Monday. The event at the Afghan embassy in New Delhi is scheduled for 17 August and will be hosted by Noor Ahmed Noor, the Afghan chargé d’affaires who took up his post earlier this year. Diplomats, members of the Afghan diaspora, prominent figures from Indian society and media representatives are expected to attend. There is a strong possibility that senior Indian officials will also be present.&nbsp;It will be the first major public function organised by the Islamic Emirate at its embassy in the Indian capital. The move comes amid expanding engagement between New Delhi and Kabul, even though India has stopped short of formal recognition of the Islamic Emirate administration.&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal underlined the strength of bilateral ties when asked about the relationship on Friday. “In the last few months and over a year now, we have had several engagements with Afghanistan. We had several ministerial visits from Afghanistan to India. And these have led to strengthening of partnership in several areas including development cooperation, trade, connectivity,” he said. “We have long-standing ties with Afghanistan, the Afghan people and we look forward to further strengthening these ties that we have with them.”&nbsp;Victory Day commemorates the Taliban’s return to Kabul on 15 August 2021, after the withdrawal of US-led NATO forces and the collapse of the previous Afghan government. The anniversary is marked each year with celebrations inside Afghanistan. This year’s events in Kabul included flag-decked convoys, public gatherings and official ceremonies. Afghan media reported that flags, banners and commemorative signs had been put up across the city. Officials of the Islamic Emirate and some foreign diplomats attended a marking of the fifth anniversary at the Loya Jirga Hall.&nbsp;India has not recognised the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, a position shared by much of the international community. Engagement has nevertheless increased significantly. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi visited New Delhi in October 2025, the first such high-level trip. India later upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy and allowed Islamic Emirate diplomats to staff the Afghan embassy in Delhi as well as consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad.&nbsp;Further visits by Islamic Emirate&nbsp;ministers responsible for industry, health and agriculture have taken place. India allocated ₹150 crore for Afghanistan in its latest budget and has continued to provide humanitarian assistance. &nbsp;

The move comes amid expanding engagement between New Delhi and Kabul, even though India has stopped short of formal recognition of the Islamic Emirate administration.

Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate government will hold its first public reception in India to mark "Victory Day" on Monday. The event at the Afghan embassy in New Delhi is scheduled for 17 August and will be hosted by Noor Ahmed Noor, the Afghan chargé d’affaires who took up his post earlier this year. Diplomats, members of the Afghan diaspora, prominent figures from Indian society and media representatives are expected to attend. There is a strong possibility that senior Indian officials will also be present. It will be the first major public function organised by the Islamic Emirate at its embassy in the Indian capital. The move comes amid expanding engagement between New Delhi and Kabul, even though India has stopped short of formal recognition of the Islamic Emirate administration. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal underlined the strength of bilateral ties when asked about the relationship on Friday. “In the last few months and over a year now, we have had several engagements with Afghanistan. We had several ministerial visits from Afghanistan to India. And these have led to strengthening of partnership in several areas including development cooperation, trade, connectivity,” he said. “We have long-standing ties with Afghanistan, the Afghan people and we look forward to further strengthening these ties that we have with them.” Victory Day commemorates the Taliban’s return to Kabul on 15 August 2021, after the withdrawal of US-led NATO forces and the collapse of the previous Afghan government. The anniversary is marked each year with celebrations inside Afghanistan. This year’s events in Kabul included flag-decked convoys, public gatherings and official ceremonies. Afghan media reported that flags, banners and commemorative signs had been put up across the city. Officials of the Islamic Emirate and some foreign diplomats attended a marking of the fifth anniversary at the Loya Jirga Hall. India has not recognised the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, a position shared by much of the international community. Engagement has nevertheless increased significantly. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi visited New Delhi in October 2025, the first such high-level trip. India later upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy and allowed Islamic Emirate diplomats to staff the Afghan embassy in Delhi as well as consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad. Further visits by Islamic Emirate ministers responsible for industry, health and agriculture have taken place. India allocated ₹150 crore for Afghanistan in its latest budget and has continued to provide humanitarian assistance.

The move comes amid expanding engagement between New Delhi and Kabul, even though India has stopped short of formal recognition of the Islamic Emirate administration.

Islamic Emirate plans first Victory Day event at Afghan mission in Delhi as India highlights growing engagement

Iran and Oman have agreed on a safe route for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after three weeks of talks, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said on Saturday, according to Iran International.&nbsp;Baghaei said talks with Muscat were continuing on other issues, but the agreement on safe shipping was reached separately.&nbsp;He also said full security in the Strait of Hormuz could not return as long as US maritime sanctions, military movements and a naval blockade remained in place.&nbsp;The development came as Iran and Oman negotiated arrangements for the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran closed the key waterway in retaliation for the US-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28.&nbsp;The move came after a series of attacks in the strait, which handled around one-fifth of the world's oil and gas shipments before the war. The United States was not involved in the negotiations between Iran and Oman. Washington is also unlikely to accept arrangements that do not restore free passage through the waterway.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz links the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea and remains central to the movement of oil and gas supplies.

Iran and Oman have agreed on a safe shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, but Tehran says full reopening depends on the US lifting its naval blockade.

Iran and Oman have agreed on a safe route for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after three weeks of talks, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said on Saturday, according to Iran International. Baghaei said talks with Muscat were continuing on other issues, but the agreement on safe shipping was reached separately. He also said full security in the Strait of Hormuz could not return as long as US maritime sanctions, military movements and a naval blockade remained in place. The development came as Iran and Oman negotiated arrangements for the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran closed the key waterway in retaliation for the US-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28. The move came after a series of attacks in the strait, which handled around one-fifth of the world's oil and gas shipments before the war. The United States was not involved in the negotiations between Iran and Oman. Washington is also unlikely to accept arrangements that do not restore free passage through the waterway. The Strait of Hormuz links the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea and remains central to the movement of oil and gas supplies.

Iran and Oman have agreed on a safe shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, but Tehran says full reopening depends on the US lifting its naval blockade.

Iran says Hormuz passage deal reached with Oman, reopening tied to US lifting blockade

At least 11 people, including three children and two women were killed in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday (Aug 15). This is one of the deadliest days of attacks since an agreement was reached in June with the motive of reducing hostilities.&nbsp;Later on Saturday, another round of strikes hit the town of Deir al-Zahrani, &nbsp;north of Nabatieh, killing four and wounding five others, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state news media.&nbsp;The IDF confirmed the airstrikes in southern Lebanon overnight, saying it struck Hezbollah infrastructure in response to an attack by the terror group on Israeli troops. However, there is no statement on Deir al-Zahrani strike.&nbsp;The Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attacks saying the civilians killed were not "military infrastructure".&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/accept-the-reality-iran-rejects-trump-s-hormuz-claim-says-waterway-will-remain-under-its-command-1786796468224">'Accept the reality': Iran rejects Trump's Hormuz claim, says waterway will remain under its command</a>&nbsp;“The seven martyrs of the Israeli airstrike on the town of Ansar are not military infrastructure and the children and women killed were not military targets,” Salam wrote on X.&nbsp;He further said that “Israel must halt this escalation,” and added that the security of the Lebanese people and their right to life on their land “are not subject to negotiation or bargaining.”&nbsp;<h2>Will get "appropriate" response</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Hezbollah said that Israeli attacks on Lebanon would be met with an "appropriate" response.&nbsp;Israel "must clearly understand that its attacks, violations and attempts to impose a fait accompli cannot continue, and will be met with an appropriate response", said the Iran-backed group.&nbsp;It also urged the Lebanese authorities to halt "humiliating" negotiations with Israel.&nbsp;Lebanese authorities "must not insist on continuing along the humiliating path of direct negotiations and providing the enemy with free concessions", said Hezbollah in a statement. &nbsp;

The Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attacks and said that Israel must halt this escalation.

At least 11 people, including three children and two women were killed in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday (Aug 15). This is one of the deadliest days of attacks since an agreement was reached in June with the motive of reducing hostilities. Later on Saturday, another round of strikes hit the town of Deir al-Zahrani, north of Nabatieh, killing four and wounding five others, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state news media. The IDF confirmed the airstrikes in southern Lebanon overnight, saying it struck Hezbollah infrastructure in response to an attack by the terror group on Israeli troops. However, there is no statement on Deir al-Zahrani strike. The Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attacks saying the civilians killed were not "military infrastructure". ALSO READ: 'Accept the reality': Iran rejects Trump's Hormuz claim, says waterway will remain under its command “The seven martyrs of the Israeli airstrike on the town of Ansar are not military infrastructure and the children and women killed were not military targets,” Salam wrote on X. He further said that “Israel must halt this escalation,” and added that the security of the Lebanese people and their right to life on their land “are not subject to negotiation or bargaining.” Will get "appropriate" response Meanwhile, Hezbollah said that Israeli attacks on Lebanon would be met with an "appropriate" response. Israel "must clearly understand that its attacks, violations and attempts to impose a fait accompli cannot continue, and will be met with an appropriate response", said the Iran-backed group. It also urged the Lebanese authorities to halt "humiliating" negotiations with Israel. Lebanese authorities "must not insist on continuing along the humiliating path of direct negotiations and providing the enemy with free concessions", said Hezbollah in a statement.

The Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attacks and said that “Israel must halt this escalation".

Not 'military infrastructure': Lebanese PM slams Israeli strike killing 11,  including children

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